Resuming exercise after a tummy tuck is a gradual process that should be approached with caution. Generally, light walking is encouraged immediately after surgery to promote circulation.
For more strenuous exercises, a waiting period of 6 to 8 weeks is often recommended, depending on the individual's healing progress and the surgeon's assessment.
Exercise plan – Week by week
Recovery from a tummy tuck surgery is unique to each individual, and the ability to start exercising will vary. To help you ease back into physical activity safely, here’s a general week-by-week guide that outlines the appropriate types of movement at each stage of healing:
Week 1
During the first week post-op, focus on gentle walks around the house to maintain blood flow. Avoid any form of strenuous activity to prevent complications.
Week 2
You may extend your walking time and distance slightly, still keeping the pace light and comfortable.
Week 3-4
As healing progresses, you can incorporate more varied movements into your walks, such as changes in direction and pace, but continue to avoid lifting weights or high-impact activities.
Week 4-6
If your surgeon agrees, you might start introducing low-impact exercises like stationary biking or water aerobics, ensuring no abdominal strain.
Week 6 and beyond
After six weeks, with your surgeon's clearance, you can gradually reintroduce more vigorous exercises into your routine, including light resistance training and cardiovascular workouts.
Don’t forget stretching
Incorporating stretching into your post-operative exercise routine, aids in maintaining muscle flexibility, enhancing blood flow, and potentially improving scar appearance. It's crucial to start with gentle stretching exercises and progressively increase the intensity as your healing allows.
Wear compression garment during training
Wearing a compression garment while exercising post-tummy tuck can offer support to the healing tissues, reduce swelling, and may help contour the surgical results. Ensure the fit is snug but not overly tight, as comfort is key during recovery.
The risks of starting too soon
Jumping into high-intensity exercises too soon after a tummy tuck can lead to increased swelling, delayed healing, and even damage to the surgical site, which may compromise the final aesthetic results. Always follow the tailored advice from your healthcare provider before resuming or starting any new exercise regimen.
Adoreal's approach to post-operative exercise
Adoreal’s approach facilitates optimal healing, allowing you to safely return to your fitness routine and maintain the results of your tummy tuck.
Connect with Adoreal for expert guidance on creating a safe and effective exercise plan after your tummy tuck. We are committed to ensuring a swift recovery that promotes long-term wellness and satisfaction with your surgical results.
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