6 weeks post op. Can I swim in a pool? (Photo)

Hello Floridagirl40,Thank you for you question and photos. Ideally the incisions are closed and healed at about 6 weeks post surgery. To ensure proper healing you may want to wait a full 8 weeks post surgery before swimming or going into a spa or sauna. I hope this is helpful, all my best!Dr. Kouros Azar

This is a very common question. Judging by your question and photograph am not certain whether you underwent a tummy tuck alone or some of the additional components of a Mommy Make Over. A Mommy Make Over is an extensive surgical endeavor often with dramatic and life changing results. In order to achieve a great outcome it is very important to be very careful about your postoperative recovery. Considering a Mommy Make Over normally consists of some type of breast reshaping , liposuction, and a tummy tuck, either full or mini, there will be several lengthy incisions which will require healing. Complete healing and sealing of these wounds is essential before a person should immerse themselves in water. The tiniest of opening can allow entry of bacteria and potentially cause a serious infection. Many times public bodies of water such as a river, lake , ocean or even a public pool can contain unusual and possibly antibiotic resistant organisms that can result in a very serious problem. Even after the wounds themselves appear to be sealed stitches under the skin can work themselves out causing a small opening and allowing the ingress of bacteria. It would be best to delay immersing yourself in water until your surgeon has had the ability to examine your wounds and provide you with a release.The physical act of swimming also needs to be considered. After a full abdominoplasty , especially one that includes muscle tightening, it is best to refrain from activities that stress the core for at least 8 weeks. Very often swimming is performed outdoors in a bathing suit that may not cover some of the areas involved in the Mommy Make Over. Very often these areas have reduced or absent feeling for several months. This lack of sensation can lead to a serious sunburn involving skin loss and permanent scarring.In order to enjoy the often dramatic and life changing life changing results of this combination of surgical procedures it is very important to closely follow your surgeons instructions and take good care of yourself postoperatively.

Generally speaking, I would say it's okay at this point to swim. However, you should start off leisurely and gradually increase intensity.Before you do swim, though, I suggest you ask your surgeon for their advice. Some surgeons prefer their patients to wait a little longer.