When can one go swimming at the beach or pool after a tummy tuck?

Hello! Thank you for your question! On average, a period of approximately 3-4 weeks on average is typical. Submerging in stagnant water, be it bathtubs, jacuzzis, pools, lakes, oceans, etc. can certainly increase your chance for infections. I usually await the incisions to be fully healed prior to allowing for this type of activity. If you do have any wound issues or delayed healing, expect that you will be restricted from doing such things. However, I allow my patients to shower and clean incisions at 3 days postoperative.  You should also protect your incision from UV light to optimize the appearance if your incision. Regardless, the answer will vary amongst plastic surgeons and you should discuss this with your surgeon and follow his/her instructions. Best wishes!

Thank you for your question.  As long as you are healing normally and do not have any open wounds, most plastic surgeons would let you go to the beach in 4-6 weeks.  Ask you plastic surgeon what his or her specific instructions are. Swimming for prolonged periods of time after surgery are probably not recommended.

Hi Rosalita,

Sure you can go to the beach after your TT surgery, just not let the ocean water get anywhere near your incision until it is completely healed. By this I mean no gaps, scabs, or drainage of any kind. Ocean water contains extremely harmful bacteria that can actually cause the dreaded 'flesh eating bacteria', so please be careful. Of course, always check with your PS to make certain your wound has healed enough to go dipping in any sort of body of water. Take care,

Dr. H