Tag: tummy tuck recovery

Recovery after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Recovery after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

Tips for a Smoother Recovery after Tummy Tuck or Abdominoplasty Surgery

A tummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that helps make your abdomen firmer. The surgery is focused on removing excess skin and fat from the tummy area. A full Abdominoplasty with muscle repair can also restore weak abdominal muscles and can create an aesthetically appealing toned tummy for both men and women. If you are dealing with sagging and loose skin around the tummy area, tummy tuck – Abdominoplasty surgery can help transform your midsection. While an Abdominoplasty can help you get the desired body, you should note that your recovery after tummy tuck is vital to optimal results.

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon who performs body contouring procedures in Sydney and Wollongong NSW. His techniques aim to bring out optimal results and improve your recovery after abdominoplasty surgery.

Guide to Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

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Benefits of the Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty Surgery

Below are some of the top benefits of the surgery:

  • An abdominoplasty can help you regain your pre-pregnancy body
  • The surgery can help eliminate fat and excess skin that could occur after weight loss surgery
  • A tummy tuck – abdominoplasty can help you achieve a flatter, firmer, and toned mid-section
  • The surgery can repair muscle separation which can occur after pregnancy
  • Abdominoplasty improves the overall look of your body

 

Tips for a Better Recovery after Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

The length of the recovery period is different from person to person. Generally, it will take most patients 3 months to recover completely after an abdominoplasty. The majority of the discomfort will be gone within the first few weeks of the surgery. It is important to hold off strenuous physical activities during the recovery phase. Vigourous Exercise and Activities such as weightlifting, running, sports, and motorbikes must be avoided for six weeks or more after the treatment. Always consult your surgeon before starting these activities.

Things to keep in mind after the surgery:

Most Importantly – Do Not Smoke, Vape or Take Recreational Drugs during your recovery period. Bad things can happen, your wound could become infected, split open (dehiscence) or your skin could die (skin Necrosis).

· Adopt a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle – Nutrition before and after surgery

Good Nutrition is vital for good results and helps the healing process during recovery. Eat well in the months before surgery. Organise and prepare healthy nutritious meals in advance that are low in sodium and loaded with fibre & protein. Excess sodium can lead to fluid retention and prolonged swelling. Drink enough water to keep your body well-hydrated and kick-start the healing process.

· Wear your Support & Compression Garments

You will be asked to wear a compression garment for a specified time duration post-surgery. It helps reduce post-operative swelling and offers adequate support to the abdomen. Post-surgical garments help promote healing and recovery. Make sure to wear it for at least the first four weeks or as instructed by your surgeon.

· Incision Care

Your incisions will be covered by a surgical dressing and bandage to offer protection against the external environment. Your surgeon will guide you regarding wound care. Keep the wounds clean and dry at all times and be very gentle. If you experience abnormal swelling, intense pain, and discharge, immediately get in touch with your medical team. Avoid hot baths until the incisions heal.

· Wound Drain Care (if req)

In some cases, a temporary drain tube will be placed near the surgical site to get rid of the excess fluid. It is used as required. Take care of it properly and empty out the drains as instructed by your surgeon

· Medications – Antibiotics and Painkillers

You will be prescribed medication, including antibiotics and painkillers. It is important to take them as directed and on time to reduce discomfort, minimise pain, and reduce the risk of post-operative swelling.

What to Expect with Recovery after Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty Surgery

Here is a timeline to follow post-surgery and suggested activities after the surgery

Week 1 to 2 Post Tummy Tuck – abdominoplasty

It is very important to wear your compression garment for the first four to six weeks post-surgery. For the first two weeks, you will be required to wear it 24/7. A compression garment helps minimise swelling and improves the results of the surgery. Make sure to gently walk around the house for 10 to 15 minutes a few times a day. It helps prevent blood-clot formation and can improve blood circulation.

Week 3 to 4 Post Tummy Tuck- abdominoplasty

Continue with light walking. You can also begin with cycling on a stationary bike. Stay clear of all sorts of strenuous exercises and workouts that target your abdominal muscles. These include sit-ups, crunches and heavy lifting. Before starting any kind of workout, get your surgeon’s approval and ensure it is safe for you. Do not go to the gym just yet.

Week 4 to 6 Post Tummy Tuck – abdominoplasty

Most patients can start low-impact exercise routines if your surgeon approves. Generally, low-impact aerobics, long walks, low weights, and gentle Pilates movements can be resumed now.

Week 6 to 8 Post Tummy Tuck – abdominoplasty

Most patients are able to do all sorts of activities at this point during the recovery phase. Moderate swimming, running outside, and walking on a treadmill helps. You can also start incorporating body strengthening exercises. Avoid putting excessive strain on the incision site. Don’t try to get back to your busy routine and exercise program immediately. Slow and steady wins the race when it comes to exercising post-surgery.

Week 8 Post Abdominoplasty

If you are healing well, your surgeon may give you permission to resume your full exercise routine. It is important to avoid martial arts, boxing, Cross Fit, F45 and anything of similar intensity. You have to wait at least three months before resuming high-intensity activities in the gym or at work.

Driving Post Abdominoplasty Surgery

You need to take at least two weeks off from work after the abdominoplasty surgery. This will give you enough time to rest and recover. The recovery varies from person to person and each individual will recover at a different pace. It is important to be very patient with yourself and follow your surgeon’s instructions as closely as possible.

It is important to avoid driving post-surgery during the initial four weeks as it can put a strain on your incisions and internal wounds. Here are a few reasons to avoid driving:

  • You will NOT be able to drive once you are discharged from the hospital as you will still be under the effects of anaesthesia (Someone responsible will be needed to drive you home)
  • The surgery can lead to some pain and exhaustion and driving immediately post the surgery can be dangerous for you.
  • Even a bit of pressure on your incision site could lead to increased discomfort and can cause pain, a seroma or delayed healing

If you are able to sit comfortably in a car, open the door without trouble, don’t experience any rubbing or pressure due to the seatbelt, are able to turn the wheel comfortably, and are able to make an emergency stop in case of a sharp turn or to prevent accidents, you should be OK for driving but always check with your surgeon.

Swimming after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

You must recover fully before you start swimming again. In most cases, your surgeon will allow you to resume swimming once the initial 8 weeks have passed. If you start too soon, you can increase the risk of wound infections. Open incisions will allow the germs to seep through and make you more prone to nasty infections. It can further lead to the splitting of incision sites which leads to delayed wound healing, bad scarring and complications.

During the first few months, you need to be cautious while taking a bath. The goal is to keep your incisions clean and dry at all times till your incisions heal fully. Always consult Dr Hunt prior to resuming swimming, diving in hot tubs, going to saunas and even taking hot baths.

Intimacy and Sex after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

The abdominoplasty surgery not only involves the removal of fat and skin but can also include the stitching of abdominal muscles. You will have sutures and incisions and your skin will be quite tender. That is why the recommendation is to avoid sexual activities post-surgery until you feel comfortable. As a standard guideline, you will be asked to avoid sexual intercourse for a minimum of four to six weeks. Just be gentle!

Make sure to consult your surgeon’s team in this regard if you want to avoid complications.

Dos and Don’ts Regarding Your Recovery after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty surgery

Dos

Here is a list of dos regarding abdominoplasty surgery:

  • Follow all your surgeons instructions
  • Take your medications as directed on time
  • Wear your supportive garments for the specified time frame
  • Wear comfortable and breathable clothing that is easy to take on and off
  • Walk around the house for 10 to 15 minutes every few hours while awake
  • Attend all your follow up surgeon appointments
  • Contact your surgeon or medical advisor if you suspect an infection

recovery after tummy tuck

Don’ts

Here is a list of don’ts:

  • Don’t smoke, vape, take recreational drugs or drink during the healing phase as it can trigger complications
  • Do take over the counter drugs, herbal supplements and blood-thinning medication unless instructed by your surgeon
  • Avoid foods that are high in sodium or low in protein
  • Avoid caffeinated beverages
  • Do not overexert your body and always get a confirmation from your surgeon prior to returning to your exercise routine
  • Do not swim, drive, and engage in sexual activities during the first few weeks post-op

FAQs about Recovery after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding therecovery:

What are the restrictions after an abdominoplasty?

Your initial recovery period is 2 to 3 weeks long. During this time, you need to rest as much as possible. It will help minimise bruising/swelling and prevent long term scarring and complications. Some of the key restrictions right after abdominoplasty surgery include:

  • Avoid heavy lifting as it can put pressure on your incisions
  • Stay clear of strenuous physical activities that can cause your heart rate to go up
  • Avoid swimming and driving till Dr Hunt gives you a go
  • Take two to three weeks off from work
  • Do not smoke or drink
  • Avoid blood-thinning medications and herbal supplements

What happens two weeks after a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty?

  • By the end of the two-week mark, most of swelling and bruising will subside significantly. Most of the discomfort is also gone by this point. However, you are in the initial stages of recovery and need to be very careful. Keep on taking the prescribed meds, listen to your surgeon’s instructions, and pay attention to incisions care.

How soon can I drive after an abdominoplasty?

  • You will need to take time off from work during the recovery phase. There is no rush to get behind the wheel. Dr Hunt will advise you to wait for a minimum of 2 to 3 weeks before you start driving again. This will give your body enough time to heal, prevent pressure on the incision site, and allow you to recover smoothly.

What are some of the possible complications of abdominoplasty surgery?

  • Bad scarring, excessive bleeding, infection, fluid build-up, slow healing of your incision, blood clots, lack of feeling around your incision, and uneven or lopsided swelling are some of the possible complications of tummy tuck – abdominoplasty surgery. If you invest some time in choosing the right surgeon and stick to all the pre and post-surgical care instructions, you won’t experience any serious complications.

Further Reading about Dr Hunt’s Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

Medical References about Recovery after Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Plastic Surgeon

dr jeremy hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery.

He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If Eyelid Rejuvenation is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.

Exercising After Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery
By Dr Jeremy Hunt FRACS - Specialist Plastic Surgeon

Exercising After Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery

Guideline to Resuming Physical Exercises after an Abdominoplasty Surgery

Tummy tuck surgery or abdominoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. It is the recommended procedure if you want to get rid of the excess fat and skin in the abdominal area. The surgery also tightens the muscles of the abdominal wall. A lot of patients who get the procedure are dealing with loose skin as a result of pregnancy or massive weight loss. After surgery it is important to keep fit to sustain the results of the surgery for longer. However, you should know that you can’t resume straight away exercising after abdominoplasty surgery. You need some time to recover before resuming your daily routine and starting exercise.

In this article, we will discuss what to expect after abdominoplasty surgery and the right way to get back to your fitness routine. Dr Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon who performs body contouring procedures in Sydney NSW. His techniques aim to bring out good results and reduce the recovery period.

Guide to Rapid Recovery

Rapid Recovery

Rapid Recovery

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Importance of Recovery After Tummy Tuck- Abdominoplasty Surgery

Plastic surgery is followed by a recovery period that could last from a few weeks up to a few months. How quickly you recover depends on the extent of the surgery, your overall health condition, and how well you stick to the postoperative instructions of Dr Hunt. Abdominoplasty surgery can be of various types. Sometimes the surgery is a skin only procedure – mini Abdominoplasty. Other times the tightening of abdominal muscles is also needed, along with liposuction. If the procedure is more complex or involves a combination of surgical techniques, the recovery period can be longer.

It is important to remember that every person is unique and will heal at a different pace. As a general rule of thumb, the younger and fitter you are, there is a high chance to recovery quickly after the surgery. It is important to allow your body to fully heal and recover before getting back to your exercise routine.

Exercising too soon can lead to prolonged swelling, blood clot formation, infections, separation of incisions, and more prominent scarring. You need to stick to Dr Hunt’s orders and listen to your body before trying a new activity.

Dr Hunt Answers Tummy Tuck – Abdominoplasty Surgery Questions

 

Exercising after Abdominoplasty – What to Expect?

Below we are going to discuss a generalised timeline of patient recovery and return to exercise following abdominoplasty. You might recover faster or slower based on the factors we have discussed above. It is important to take Dr Hunt’s opinion into account before resuming your regular exercise routine.

1.     24 Hours Post Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

The first 24 hours after the surgery are critical and more challenging for the patient. No matter how fit you were prior to getting the surgery done, you might still experience trouble sitting up, lying down, and performing regular tasks. This is the time to rest and hydrate your body. Make sure you have someone to help you around the house. You can either ask a family member or a friend to take care of you or even hire a caretaker.

The only activity you should be doing at this time is walking shorter distances for a few minutes. This activity will improve blood circulation, prevent the formation of blood clots and kick start your healing journey. You might need support while walking. You should keep slightly bent forward position of the body to avoid putting too much pressure on the incisions. Avoid over stretching your muscles at all costs.

2.     1-2 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

During the first few weeks after the surgery, Dr Hunt will advise you to wear a compression garment 24/7. Your core plays an important role in every single movement. Hence, you might find it challenging to carry out simple tasks such as standing up and even walking. Try to move gently and avoid ample body movements.

Make sure to extend the duration of your walks by the end of week one. Once the first 2 weeks are over, you can also incorporate other light cardiovascular exercises. Select activities that raise your heart rate without stressing your core. Stay clear of any strenuous activities. Avoid any movements that involve twisting and turning the abdomen. Stationary cycling is a great exercise to do at this point. It gets your heart rate up, enables you to move your legs and doesn’t involve a lot of abdominal muscle movement.

3.     3-4 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

By the end of the third week, your swelling should subside significantly. If you haven’t tried walking longer distances or any other cardiovascular exercises by this point, now is the time to do it. Stay clear of heavy lifting and exercises that require full-body movements and/or involve your core. Sit-ups are still to be avoided, and the same is valid for Yoga and pilates.

4.     4-6 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

Slowly and steadily increase the intensity of your cardio workouts. By this point, low-impact, cardio workouts will work well for you. Walking, stationary cycling, and elliptical are all good choices. By the end of the six-week marker, you can slowly add strength training workouts to your routine. Select exercises that isolate your arms and legs and don’t involve your core. You can also try working with a personal trainer to ensure you are isolating the right muscle groups.

5.     6-8 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty

If everything goes well, you should be cleared for all kinds of aerobic workouts. All low, moderate and high impact exercises should be ok at this point. You can also start doing yoga and other gentle full-body movements.

Once you feel comfortable with cardio, you can begin strength training as well. Be careful with exercises that can put stress on your abdominal walls. It is better to go for free weights rather than weight machines. By the end of the 8 to 10 weeks, you can slowly start to get back to your pre-surgery workout routine if Dr Hunt gives you a go. Start slow and gradually build up your strength. Do not go from zero to a two-hour full-body routine in one day.

Exercise Ideas after an Abdominoplasty

Once you are fully recovered and cleared for exercise, you can resume your usual workout routine. It is crucial to wait for the right time, otherwise you might end up doing more harm than good.

Let’s see what muscle groups impact the overall appearance of your abdomen. Rectus abdominis, internal oblique, external oblique, and transversus abdominis all play an important role in how your tummy looks. If you work these muscles, you will have a toned and tight stomach. Here are a few exercises that will help you get a toned and fit tummy:

·       Traditional Crunch

It is a basic yet highly effective exercise to tone your tummy. The exercise involves minimal movement and leaves little room for error. To achieve optimal results, go for slow and control the movement. Get your hands on a good quality yoga mat to do crunches. It will make exercising a lot more comfortable. Look at the ceiling and avoid tucking your chin to the chest. Avoid pulling on your neck. Once you master the basic crunch, you can try different variations:

  • Add a twist to the crunch by alternating the shoulders while lifting
  • Try a V-crunch by sitting in a chair. Keep your back straight and lean at a 45-degree. Contract your abdomen while raising your legs

·        Leg Lifts

Contrary to the name, leg lifts can have an amazing impact on your tummy. Lie on a yoga mat, keep your back straight and arms at your sides, and lift your legs a few inches above the ground. Make sure that your abdominal muscles are tight. Lower your legs slowly. Repeat as needed.

·        Plank

Plank is a great toning exercise for your tummy and the whole body. Place your hands under the shoulders in a push-up position and hold it for a minute. Try to keep your body in a straight line. Do not bend your hips and waist in any way. If you are new to plank, you can start with a 5 to 10-second plank and gradually build it up to one minute or more.

·        Stability Exercises

You can also try stability exercises as they engage multiple muscle groups all at the same time. Keep your body stable while doing ab tightening movements.

·        Other Exercises

Contrary to the popular belief, ab exercises aren’t the only way to strengthen your ab muscles. You can try balance crunch, knee fold tucks, pilates, yoga, sliding pike and other exercises to keep your tummy looking toned and tight.

FAQs about Abdominoplasty Recovery

Here is a list of frequently asked questions we get regarding exercising after Abdominoplasty:

How soon can I work out after tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty?

  • You can slowly build up your exercise routine in about 8 to 10 weeks after the surgery if Dr Hunt gives you a go. Remember that each individual is different and will heal at a different pace.

How much can I walk after an Abdominoplasty?

  • During the initial week, try walking 10 to 15 minutes a day at a very slow pace. By the end of the two-week marker, you can increase the duration to 25 minutes. By the end of the month, you can walk for up to an hour comfortably. It is important to listen to your body. At any point, if you feel tired and exhausted, take a break, drink some water and start again.

Can I do squats after a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty?

  • Squats can only be performed once the initial 8 to 10 weeks after the surgery have passed and Dr Hunt clears you for exercise.

How do I get my abdomen toned and tight after surgery?

  • Here is how to keep your stomach looking flat, toned and tight after a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty surgery: eat lots of protein, drink enough water, let go of yo-yo diets, and incorporate ab workouts into your exercise routine.

Why my stomach is still big after a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty?

  • An Abdominoplasty is a complex surgical procedure. The removal of excess skin can affect the lymphatic drainage system. As a result, your tummy might be swollen and bloated for quite some time. Once the swelling goes down, your tummy will look flat.

Can you tone your abdomen after a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty?

  • Once you are fully healed, you can start doing ab workouts to enhance the look of your tummy further.

Does fat return after an Abdominoplasty?

  • If you gain weight, you might end up with fat on your tummy area. Hence, it is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle after tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty surgery.

How can I avoid weight gain after a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty?

  • Following a healthy lifestyle is the only way to prevent excess weight gain after surgery.

Can I do sit-ups after abdominoplasty?

  • It is recommended to avoid doing sit-ups along with other core exercises for 10 to 12 weeks post surgery or until Dr Hunt gives you a go.

How long does the tightness last after surgery?

  • The tight feeling along the tummy area can linger on for 6 to 12 weeks after the Abdominoplasty surgery.

How long after tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty do you see results?

  • You will be able to see some difference almost immediately after the surgery. However, swelling can take up to 12 months to go away completely.

Can I walk on the treadmill after a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty?

  • Yes, you can walk on the treadmill after the surgery. Just keep the speed low in the beginning and gradually build up the pace.

Does a tummy tuck/ Abdominoplasty make your waist smaller?

  • Yes, an Abdominoplasty can help you get rid of excess skin and fat around the tummy area which eventually reduces the size of your waist

Further Reading about Tummy Tuck/ Abdominoplasty Surgery

Medical References about Abdominoplasty Recovery

About Dr Jeremy Hunt – Plastic Surgeon

Dr Jeremy Hunt

Dr Jeremy Hunt is a specialist plastic surgeon performing breast, body, face and nose surgery.

He is a member of FRACS & ASPS and has over 20 years of experience providing cosmetic and plastic surgery in Sydney.

Careful, considerate and honest, Dr Jeremy Hunt works with you to find a solution that is optimal for your body and your lifestyle. Every patient is unique and, through his guidance, can achieve good results.

Dr Hunt’s personal, one-on-one service and attention to detail has given thousands of women and men from the Sydney & Wollongong NSW area and across Australia the aesthetic results they desire.

Dr Hunt’s qualifications and education

Dr Jeremy A Hunt MBBS FRACS graduated with a Bachelor of Medicine degree from Sydney University in 1990 and is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons and member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgery. He completed a Fellowship at the prestigious University of Texas in the United States, where he learnt from some of the world’s very best plastic surgeons.

Next Step – Make an Enquiry or Request a consultation with Dr Hunt

Want more information before scheduling your consultation?

If Eyelid Rejuvenation is something you’re considering, Dr Hunt can thoroughly explain all the options to you in a one-on-one consultation.

Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health professional.