Back to Work One Week Post TT?

I routinely perform abdominoplasties (tummy tucks) with liposuction and I think it is important to plan to have two weeks off.  I have had patients that went back to work at one week and I think they did fine, but really most of them wished they had taken a second week off.  Even at a desk job, prolonged sitting can be quite uncomfortable after a tummy tuck and it is something to expect.  If you attempt to go back at one week, you will not have your "usual" stamina and may have to shorten your days or leave early.  Everyone has different "pain thresholds" and there is some variation, but I really cant remember anyone that wasnt glad they had that second week off.  I hope this helps!

Sincerely,

 

James F. Boynton, M.D., F.A.C.S.

Thank you for your question! Although it is possible to be ready to return to work 7 days post surgery, most patients need 10-14 days off of work post tummy tuck procedure. The amount of time each patient takes off is also individualized by the patient’s job and level of physical activity the job requires. Best of luck!

Is a Week Enough Recovery Time after Tummy Tuck?A week is too short for adequate recovery from a tummy tuck. 2 weeks minimum is recommended for sedentary jobs and only if approved by your surgeon. Abdominoplasty involves a recovery period of 10 to 14 days longer than most plastic surgical procedures. Initial discomfort and decreased mobility is typical. 3-5 days or more of assistance at home is usually indicated.You will be encouraged to move and walk regularly starting the day of surgery. Wearing your TED stockings at all times, except while washing, to prevent venous clots (deep vein thrombosis) is mandatory. Light activity is comfortable in 10-20 days. No sports or heavy lifting for 6 weeks or more – please discuss with your doctor for specific questions.Since your job keeps you sedentary, you may plan on returning to work in 10-14 days, with the understanding that you can still have discomfort with motion. Please discuss this with the doctor and the nursing staff. Excess swelling may indicate too much activity. Do not plan on resuming aerobic or strenuous exercise for about 6 weeks after surgery.

The operative word you use is: "is it possible?" but the real question is: "is it likely that you will be back to work at one week following abdominoplasty?". That is a more difficult question to answer and I generally advise my patients to plan 2 weeks off. Your recovery will depend on several factors including the extent of the surgery (mini versus full), muscle repair and pain tolerance.

There are several factors that determine when you can go back to work after a tummy tuck. Some of the most important ones are how fit you are, how extensive your tummy tuck was, how physical your job is and your pain tolerance.
In general 10-14 days is a good estimate of back to work time for a desk job, after a small tummy tuck in a fit person.
Although the pressures to return to work may be significant - best not to overdo it by going back too early.

Most patients a week after a tummy tuck are up and about.  They can get in and out of a car and walk up and down stairs.  But not all.  One has to factor in the variables associated with conalescence and make a prediction.