When Can I Exercise After a Tummy Tuck?
Posted June 18, 2016 in Tummy Tuck
Individuals who undergo tummy tuck surgery look forward to the results with great anticipation. You are probably looking forward to everything from a flatter tummy to increased core strength to looking better in your clothing. But amid the anticipation, it is important not to forget about the recovery process. Your body will need some time to heal before you resume exercise after tummy tuck surgery.
Walking and Light Activities
During the first few weeks after surgery, you should refrain from exercise and rest as much as possible. But rather than completely resigning yourself to the couch, every so often you should take a brief walk around the house, around the block, or to a nearby park. Doing this will help your body heal faster and prepare your body to resume exercise later. Walking will also decrease the likelihood of blood clots in the leg veins.
Cardiovascular Exercises
Avoid cardiovascular exercises like running or jogging for at least four weeks. As your incisions heal, you can gradually increase your cardiovascular activities from walking to more intense exercises. In all things, monitor your body’s healing and be sure that your incisions are well-protected and in no danger of tearing.
Strength Training
When you can resume strength training depends on the intensity of your activity. Most strength training exercises strain the abdominal muscles, which should be avoided for a minimum of six weeks after surgery. Light strength training may be gradually introduced before six weeks if it does not strain the abdominal muscles. Depending on how you are healing, heavy lifting should be avoided for at least six to seven weeks.
Abdominal Exercises
Because tummy tuck surgery directly affects the abdominal muscles, any sit-ups, crunches, or core-strengthening exercises should be entirely avoided for a minimum of six to seven weeks or longer. When you reintroduce abdominal exercises, do so very gradually. Do not start right back up with what you were doing before surgery, as your muscles will be tender and ill-prepared for it. It is best to start small and gradually work your way up.
Pushing yourself to do too much exercise too soon could result in surgical complications and a lot of pain. In general, it is best to avoid most exercises (except for walking and light cardio activities) for approximately four to six weeks so that you do not hinder the healing process. Any new exercises should be introduced one at a time and gradually increased in intensity/length as you rebuild your core strength until you are ready to fully resume normal activities with your new body.
For more answers about tummy tuck surgery, schedule your consultation with Dr. Andrés Taleisnik. To book your appointment, call our office at (714) 538-8549 or fill out our online contact form today.
