Will I Be Able to Do Ab Exercises, Etc. After Tummy Tuck Heals?

Dear Arik,

   I have my patients begin light activity at 2 weeks. They are performing more strenuous activity including core exercises by 6 weeks. You will experience soreness and minor discomfort for a short period of time after you resume activities but this resolves with time. Be sure to ask specific questions about your activity level with your surgeon before and during your recovery.

Ab Exercises are not a problem and in fact recommended to all of my patients  after they are full healed from their Tummy TuckLight walking but not running begins immediately after surgery once you are home. In general for most of my patients, after the operation, basic exercises are recommended, such as walking immediately and progressive activities beginning on the third week. Walking can usually begin in a few days after surgery. Normal activity may be resumed at 3-6 weeks post operation to tolerance and that would include elliptical and light cardio. At 6 weeks core exercises especially crunches (starting slowly and building each week to tolerance) is particularly helpful to show your results following a tummy tuck. Specific time periods for resumption of daily activities, work, and exercise with be further discussed by your surgeon post surgery.

Yes, with normal healing you should be able to resume all activity at 6-8 weeks after surgery.  Discuss specific instruction with the board-certified plastic surgeon you choose to do you surgery. Good Luck!