Mon 22nd Aug 2022
If you are researching Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery, you will likely be wondering how long it will take before you can return to your normal routines. You may specifically be wondering when you can begin exercising again, this article will cover everything you need to know about returning to exercise after having Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery. It is important to note that this article should guide your recovery and should not replace your surgeon’s guidance.
A Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) is a rather significant procedure involving a hip-to-hip incision wound, abdominal wall muscle tightening, and significant internal surgical wounds that take time to heal. The postoperative recovery process after Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) surgery will take some time. It is recommended that a minimum of three weeks will be required before you return to a non-physical occupation, and six weeks until you can return to light exercise.
It is important to know that it can take a few months before you can fully return to more intensive workout routines. Throughout your recovery process, it is essential that you let your body guide you as to when you can attempt new activities and not overstrain your body.
Whilst this article covers the Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) recovery process in-depth, your first choice for advice regarding your specific recovery process must be with your surgeon, Dr Dona. Every Tummy Tuck patient’s recovery can vary depending on the individual and the variation of Tummy Tuck performed.
During your initial consultation, Dr Dona will provide you with an individualised surgical plan that will include a post-operative plan. Your post-operative plan will be very detailed and will involve three weekly in-clinic post-operative care visits with our nursing team, that will continue for a minimum of three weeks. We integrate light-based therapy into your post-operative wound healing journey. In addition, light therapy will promote healing cells, used to mature your surgical scars much faster thus, providing the best possible scar formation.
During the first day after your surgery, you will be encouraged to walk around slowly with assistance. Of course, you would expect to be uncomfortable, so you can take this at your own pace.
You will continue to be encouraged to take short, intermittent walks, which will further accelerate your recovery process. Depending on how comfortable you are feeling and your fitness levels prior to surgery, it is likely that you can resume brisk walking four weeks post-surgery. This of course, is something that you can discuss within your regular post-operative appointments.
Six weeks after your Tummy Tuck (Abdominoplasty) procedure, you can return to the gym. You may choose to start with some light weights or cardio. From there, listen to your body and train based on how you are feeling.
Think of the first six weeks after surgery as RECOVERY, and beyond six weeks your mindset changes to REHABILITATION. This means that you can essentially attempt any physical activities that you want, listen to your body, and week by week you will get more comfortable and stronger. Eventually, typically at least six months post-surgery, you will 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 send us a message using the enquiry form at the bottom of this article or call 1300 373 662.
Dr Eddy Dona has been a specialist plastic surgeon since 2007, and is a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons. From your first clinic visit, and throughout your surgical journey, Dr Dona and his team will be there to make it as smooth as possible.
Get in touch with our clinic to request a consultation with Dr Eddy Dona
Dr Eddy Dona (FRACS) is a Specialist Plastic Surgeons in Sydney, and a member of the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). Following his medical degree at the University of Sydney in 1996, Dr Dona then began a further 11 years of intensive training to become a Specialist Plastic & Reconstructive Surgeon.
Since starting private practice in 2007, Dr Dona has had patients from all over Australia seeking his expertise and specialist management. Dr Dona’s practice has grown and become heavily focused on breast and body reconstructive procedures, especially after massive weight loss including post-pregnancy.
Despite running a busy private practice, Dr Dona spent the first 15 years of his specialist practice dedicating part of his time to one of Sydney’s largest teaching public hospitals, including training future plastic surgeons. This was where Dr Dona was often required to reconstruct the bodies of those affected by trauma and cancer.