After pregnancy or major weight loss, a tummy tuck can transform the appearance of your abdominal area – eliminating sagging skin, tightening the underlying muscles, and creating a flatter, more contoured overall look. However, the tummy tuck procedure does require a significant amount of downtime before you can return to normal daily activities, especially exercise.
Recovery after a tummy tuck is different for every patient. We will follow up with you in the weeks after your procedure to monitor your progress and advise you when it is safe to resume certain activities. Generally speaking, most patients are able to return to very light exercise within 2 to 4 weeks, once the initial soreness passes. Taking regular walks (on a level surface) at this time will not only help maintain healthy blood circulation, it will also help you feel better.
Within 4 to 6 weeks (or once your tissues have healed), you should be able to return to most low impact aerobics, including incline walking, an upright bike, or a recumbent bike. After two months, almost all forms of exercise can be resumed except crunches. Do not attempt crunches and other stomach-targeted exercises until you have reached the 6 month mark, and your surgeon informs you it is safe.
Be sure not to do too much too soon. Listen to your body; if an exercise ever feels painful or uncomfortable, stop. Overactivity can result in swelling and soreness, which will delay your recovery.
If you have further questions about exercise after a tummy tuck, please contact Marietta Plastic Surgery today to schedule a consultation with one of our experienced Atlanta tummy tuck surgeons. Call (770) 425-0118 for our Marietta office, or (678), 494-2380 for our Woodstock office.