A type of reconstructive surgery also known as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic surgery. This is a surgical procedure that removes the excess skin and fat resulting in tight and firm skin. It is best suited for individuals who went from major weight loss or pregnancy. The results of it are long-lasting and effective but one of the most asked questions regarding it is  When Can I Resume Work and Exercise After a Tummy Tuck? It depends on several factors that are: the overall health of the person, the kind of excision performed, and how strictly you follow the aftercare instructions by your doctors. This is an extensive guide to know all about abdominoplasty.

What’s the Recovery Process of Abdominoplasty?

It is a major invasive treatment. The path of getting to normality is gradual and time-consuming. picking up from where you left off after a fat removal process too soon leads to complications such as infection in the treated area, slow healing, and reopening of stitches. The time after which you start your normal life depends on the type of procedure performed. A mini fat removal operation typically involves a shorter time to get better as compared to a full or extended anoplasty.

When Can You Resume Work and Exercise After a Tummy Tuck?

Going Back to normal life activities After a tummy tuck 

The initial days: Rest and Recovery

• In the initial days after the surgery take as much rest as possible as it is one of the most crucial stages post-surgery. In this stage
• There’ll be swelling, bruising, and discomfort around the wound.
• a surgical expert will place drains to collect and remove the fluid buildup from your body.
• You will be prescribed painkillers and antibiotics.
• Walking a few steps is prescribed to regulate the blood flow and major and excess movements are prohibited.
• Do not workout in this condition. Focus on being better, take a lot of rest, and stay hydrated.

2 to 4 Weeks: Returning to Work

After 1 month post-surgery, many people feel well enough to start their office-based jobs. However, the return to daily life tasks and the office depends on several factors including the individual’s job, the body’s recovering properties, and a plastic surgeon’s advice.

Pro tip: Wear loose-fitting clothes, take breaks, and avoid lifting heavy loads.

When to Exercise After a Tummy Tuck

Here are the guidelines for you when to  start your physical activity and workout routine:

1–2 Weeks:

• At this point stick to a little walk inside the home for blood circulation.
• Avoid heavy cardio lifting or stretching.

3–4 Weeks:

• Increase your walking distance.
• Do not do abdominal workouts or heavy movements.
• Stay active without putting a load on the treatment area.

5–6 Weeks:

• Slight cardio activities (e.g., stationary bike at low resistance) may be introduced if your surgeon agrees.
• You might begin very little strength training but no core workouts yet.

2 Months and Beyond:

• Restart your fitness sessions at this point.
• Patients should have yoga or light strength training, etc.
• stay away from heavy workouts such as planks, crunches or leg raises until your doctor’s recommendations.

After 3 Months:

If you feel you have fully recovered and do not have any side effects or any other issue related to the  wound then you can go back to your daily life workout routine.

Tips for a Smooth Recovery

• One must follow the surgeon’s advice on medications, drain care, and other aftercare.
• Wear loose-fitting clothes to reduce swelling and speed up the process of getting better.
• Keep yourself hydrated and eat food full of nutrients.
• Sleep with your upper body elevated and knees slightly bent to minimize tension on the incision.
• Be patient with yourself. The journey of betterment isn’t linear, and it’s okay to have good days and bad days.

Conclusion

It is very important to be cautious after your abdominoplasty. To heal in the best way you must follow your surgeon’s recommendations for post-surgery care. The recovery process is time-consuming so you must be patient with it as your body goes through a drastic change. Always resume your normal life activities with your doctor’s recommendations and instructions. 

Enfield Royal Clinic is the best cosmetic clinic in Islamabad. If you want to opt for a tummy tuck and want to know When Can You Resume Work and Exercise After a Tummy Tuck? Call us now and book your consultation with our renowned surgeon Dr Naveed Azhar.