Returning To Exercise After Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) Surgery
Fri 30th Jan 2026
If you’re interested in Tummy Tuck surgery (Abdominoplasty) in Sydney, you may be wondering how long it takes before you can return to your everyday routines, including exercise. This article covers everything you need to know about returning to exercise after a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) so you can rediscover your fitness without any guesswork.
NB: This article should guide your recovery and not replace your surgeon’s advice.
A Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a surgical procedure that usually involves a hip-to-hip incision, abdominal wall muscle tightening, and internal surgical wounds that take time to heal. Consequently, your post-operative recovery after Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery will take some time.
It’s recommended that you wait at least three weeks before returning to a non-physical occupation and six weeks before returning to light exercise.
Bear in mind that it can take a few months before you can fully return to more intensive workout routines. Throughout your recovery, let your body guide you. It will tell you when you can attempt new activities without overstraining.
Summary:
- No heavy lifting or strenuous activities for the first six weeks.
- Walk from day one post-op. However, you will be sore, slow and need assistance.
- You should be able to walk unassisted after one week.
- Increase the amount of walking you can do between weeks one and three.
- Very light lifting and manual tasks from weeks three to six. Listen to your body and use common sense.
- From six weeks onward, you can officially resume normal activities and exercise.
- After six weeks, you can recommence activities such as light body weight training and light jogging. Increase your training sessions gradually, week by week.
- It takes at least three to six months before you are back to normal.
Everyone’s Recovery Is Different
Everyone recovers differently from surgery, which is why it is always important to listen to your body. What’s more, there are a variety of different abdominoplasty procedures, and the more involved your procedure, the more time it will take for you to recover.
Walking & Running After a Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty)
During the first day after your surgery, you’ll be encouraged to walk slowly with assistance. You’ll still feel uncomfortable at this time, so you must take this at your own pace.
You’ll continue to be encouraged to take short, intermittent walks, which will further accelerate your recovery process. Depending on your comfort and fitness level before surgery, you can likely resume brisk walking four weeks after surgery. However, you can discuss this with Dr Dona during your regular post-operative appointments.
Lifting Weights & Working Out After Abdominoplasty
Six weeks after your Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure, you can return to the gym. Here, you can commence with some light weights or cardio. Then, listen to your body and train based on how you feel.
Think of the first six weeks following surgery as RECOVERY, and beyond six weeks as REHABILITATION. During your rehabilitation, you can try anything you like, but you must listen to your body. Progress slowly, week by week, as you gain strength and fitness. Eventually, typically at least six months after surgery, you’ll be back to your usual self.
If you have any further questions about the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) recovery process, or would like to request a consultation with Dr Dona, please use the enquiry form at the bottom of this article or call 1300 373 662.
