Thanks for your question. The healthier you are definitely makes you a ‘better’ surgical candidate. This is true for reducing potential risks of anesthesia and surgery. A shorten downtown and recovery phase is expected. Abdominal muscle tone of the rectus muscles will improve the aesthetic... more
Shorter recovery time due to fitness level?
I'm a 42-year old personal trainer who lifts weights heavily and on a regular basis. I've given birth to and nursed four wonderful children- the youngest of which is now 12. I will be getting an abdominoplasty (tummy tuck), as well as a lift with implants. Will my fitness level help shorten my recovery time? Will strong muscle tone in my chest and abs help my surgeon to get better results? Thank you!
Sort: Date | Helpful
7 answers to “Shorter recovery time due to fitness...”A: Being fit is best for better recovery from surgery
Yes, excellent fitness level is highly desireable for recovery as well as good nutrition, which is also essential. This relates to wound healing and improved oxygenation. However, bear in mind, that a healthy prominent pectoralis muscle will generally be more vascular and bigger and therefore more sore... more
A: Good physical conditioning is an asset when recovering from surgery.
We always look favorably upon motivated patients who keep themselves in good physical condition. Patients who are in good cardiovascular shape and close to ideal body weight tend to recover from surgery well. Your tissues may not actually heal any faster than those of a patient who is overweight and sedentary... more
A: Fitness helps with recovery
A tummy tuck with implants and lift is one of the longer operations with significant stress on the body. Like training for a big race, if your body is in great shape, you will recover faster. I have found that healthy and fit patients recover better and faster.
A: Being fit is a great asset and so is being positive
Fit patients recover better than those who are out of shape. Also of critical importance is your attitude. If you are a positive and calm person with good support around you, the recovery will go great!
A: Yes, the more healthy and fit you are the faster your recovery.
Yes, the more healthy and fit you are the faster your recovery. You will have all the factors in your favor for the surgery. My only caution would be not to push yourself too much, which can also be detrimental. Just listen to your doctor and believe your body when you are pushing yourself to recovery... more
A: Being fit is your best ally
Being fit won't necessarily shorten a normal recovery time, but it certainly doesn't hurt and patients who aren't fit, might have other potential side effects or complications that will prolong recovery beyond what is expected. The body general will heal the way it will heal. That is, you can't push... more
Comments
IMPORTANT: As noted in our Terms of Service, the information found on RealSelf.com, including that provided by professionals in the Questions & Answers area, is a general educational aid. The Questions and Answers contain opinions and views created by community members. RealSelf.com is not responsible for the accuracy of any information posted by community members. Do not rely on this information as a substitute for personal medical or healthcare advice, or for diagnosis or treatment purposes.
7 posts
10 Mar 2009
Thanks for all of the great info! This has been most informative. Here is what I have taken home from this site so far to have the best experience and recovery possible: 1.) Be in as good a shape as possible before surgery, to include proper diet. 2.) Maintain a positive outlook and stay CALM (hard for me!). 3.) Drink plenty of water post-op. 4.) Follow my doctors orders to the letter about exercise. 5.) Eat a sound diet post-surgery with adequate calories and plenty of high-quality protein. Am I missing anything? By the way- My doctor prefers to place my implant (just a small one- I like the look, but don't need size) on top of the muscle. He's assured me that I have enough tissue it should look Okay.