Skip to content

Blog

When Can You Start Working Out After a Tummy Tuck?

Posted in Tummy Tuck

After tummy tuck surgery, you will need to rest and take time away from work and other activities to ensure proper healing and achieve optimal results. Once you decide to have this surgery to repair abdominal muscles and eliminate excess skin and fat, it’s essential to begin thinking about your next steps after abdominoplasty.

Cosmetic plastic surgery can have life-changing emotional and physical impacts, so you must have realistic expectations for your recovery timeline. These include knowing what to expect while you heal and when you can resume your daily routines.

Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Christopher Livingston has dedicated his career to helping his patients achieve their ultimate cosmetic goals through effective, innovative aesthetic techniques and compassionate, professional medical care. He emphasizes patient understanding to make the process as comfortable and convenient as possible.

How Long Is the Recovery After Abdominoplasty?

While the changes achieved through tummy tuck surgery are astonishing, the operation is invasive and complex. Extended recovery is especially necessary when you opt to combine your abdominoplasty with additional surgeries, like during a mommy makeover. It can be tempting to jump back into your everyday activities to show off your new figure. Still, it is critical to realize your body needs time to rest, heal, and recover after this cosmetic surgery.

Patients should expect some discomfort, inflammation, and limited mobility in the first couple of weeks after abdominoplasty. Dr. Livingston recommends patients plan to have a responsible adult around the house during this initial recovery phase. If you have young children or physically demanding housework, assistance after surgery is essential. After a tummy tuck, gentle movement can help speed the healing process. However, don’t strain yourself; too much activity after an abdominoplasty can lead to setbacks.

Typically, patients have healed enough to return to work after two to three weeks, provided their job does not require strenuous physical labor. After about three to four weeks, most patients begin to feel more like themselves. They are comfortable with light walking and other daily activities. This point is when many patients start thinking about returning to the fitness center. However, your body is still healing, and resuming activities too soon can compromise your results.

When Can I Return to My Workout Routine After a Tummy Tuck?

Before resuming any exercise, patients should obtain clearance from Dr. Livingston. The typical prescription is returning to light activities at the four- to six-week mark and taking it up a notch after 12 weeks. Dr. Livingston will thoroughly assess your progress, your healing, and how the outcome is shaping up and advise you on the safest path moving forward. Patience is critical during tummy tuck recovery. If you take it slowly and do not rush, you will realize the outstanding benefits of abdominoplasty.

Are You Ready to Schedule Your Tummy Tuck?

The first step in planning your tummy tuck is to consult with an experienced, qualified, board-certified plastic surgeon. Dr. Livingston, a renowned plastic and reconstructive surgeon, has been one of Houston’s leading plastic surgeons for two decades. He is passionate about helping his patients attain optimal aesthetics and achieve their goals through top-quality surgical techniques and outstanding dedication to compassionate care. For more information about abdominoplasty, call (281) 501-1812 or contact us online to schedule your consultation today!