Most of the swelling will fade away two weeks after the surgery. At this point, you can start walking twice a day for fifteen to twenty minutes. Do not opt for any other exercises as your body is still in the initial phases of recovery. You can increase the duration of your walks after the four weeks marker.
To prevent lower extremity blood clots, it is very important that you take slow 10-minute walks every two hours, except while you sleep, starting on the day after your surgery.
You should still avoid any particularly strenuous workouts, as well as exercises targeting the abdominal area, such as sits ups or weight lifting. Walking or stationary cycling can be a good place to start, with more vigorous exercise not recommended until the 6-week mark.
Longer Walks and Gentle Exercise
Between weeks three and six of tummy tuck recovery, you can slowly increase the duration of your walks, as well as add other exercise options such as a stationary bike.
You should avoid any stretching of the abdominal area as it may separate the scar or abdominal muscles if they were operated on, hence, only walking is recommended. Week 1 – 2: walk at least 5 minutes every hour. Week 2 – 4: Walk at least 20 minutes per day.
Very light walking in the first few weeks can help to reduce swelling, boost circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots. Avoid strenuous exercise, including lifting weights, for at least six to twelve weeks to allow your body time to fully heal.
Can I walk on the treadmill after a tummy tuck? You can walk on a treadmill as well as incorporate any other cardiovascular exercises six weeks after getting a tummy tuck.
The first three to five days are the most difficult period of tummy tuck recovery. You will spend much of this time reclining – often even sleeping in a recliner. During this first week when the pain is most severe, Dr. Slack will prescribe a combination of narcotics and muscle relaxers.
The reason why you can't sleep on your side after a tummy tuck is that it creates too much tension in the surgical area and can be painful. Sleeping on your side after 3 or 5 weeks after the tummy tuck is even better. In addition to sleeping in the right position, it is also important to ensure a comfortable recovery.
In general, you need to keep a straight abdomen with slight bending while recovering after your tummy tuck. You should avoid bending over too much (e.g. to pick up your child) for the first 4-6 weeks after your abdominoplasty.
The best position to sleep after your tummy tuck is on your back. This position might be uncomfortable if you usually sleep on your side or stomach, but most patients get used to this position quickly. Sleeping on your stomach or side can strain your incisions and result in post-operative complications.
After a tummy tuck, you'll need extra sleep. We recommend sleeping as much as you can for the first week or two. When you are awake, focus on eating healthy meals, taking gentle walks, and getting lots of hydration. Elevating your torso is essential for comfortable and safe sleep.
When can I wear jeans after a tummy tuck? Most patients after tummy tuck surgery feel comfortable wearing jeans about 3-4 weeks after surgery. This gives time for the drains to be removed (if they were used), the incision to heal and some of the swelling to go down.
The compression garment must be worn 24/7 even when you sleep, you will be only allowed to take it off when you shower. It is recommended to have two garments, so you can have one for change. . Invest in a good quality garment as this influences the outcome of the surgery.
Tummy tuck surgery causes changes to the patient's lymphatic drainage system. Increased fluids in the area will cause it to grow larger during initial healing. Swelling is a normal response to an injury, so most of the swelling will be located near the incision.
Tiredness. For at least six weeks after a tummy tuck surgery, you will feel weak and tired. Sometimes it might be hard for you to stand up straight. But regardless of how weak your body feels, you have to stand and walk around the house several times a day to recover your natural posture and movement.
You can massage the scars in the shower, with soap and water, and then again with moisturizing cream after you have showered. We suggest scar massage many times throughout the day for 5-10 minutes each session. It is important to strictly follow your post-operative tummy tuck instructions.
Swelling is a normal part of tummy tuck recovery, and while most of it resolves within the first 2 months, some residual swelling can last for 6 months to a year.
Vegetables and fruits. As with any diet, fruits and vegetables are recommended, especially dark leafy greens. Other good foods include red onions, broccoli, pineapples and apples, and capers to decrease swelling faster. These provide your body with essential vitamins to help you heal and fight infection.
Summary. It takes time and rest to properly heal after tummy tuck surgery. While you heal, you need to avoid squatting, lifting, or any action that places stress on the surgical area. Doing so may interfere with healing and cause scarring.
If you have a “mini tummy tuck” with a smaller incision, you'll likely need between one and three weeks of elevated sleeping. On the other hand, full-tummy tuck patients require about four weeks, with six weeks of limiting any strenuous exercise or lifting.
You will want to avoid pull ups, power lifting, planking, sit-ups or other abdominal or lifting exercises.
You will need about a week of bed rest following a tummy tuck. It can take two weeks before you can return to your normal activities after the surgery.