Sex After Tummy Tuck for Males?

Question

Hi there, I'm a young male who had an abdominoplasty and mastopexy w/lipo 13 days ago. It's been quite difficult to find info on recovery for men. My biggest question has been about sex afterwards. How long should a male wait to do it? The same amount of time recommended for females? And - excuse the somewhat embarrassing question - what about orgasms in general? Is it not recommended to even masturbate for the same amount of time? Thanks for any help you can provide.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

The safest answer would be 6 weeks as that is when you have the majority of wound healing by then. Prior to that time you can cause a tear where ever stitches were placed - inside or out. It would probably be OK to masturbate at 3 weeks, but again there may be some risk.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your honest and important question about sex and orgasms after tummy tuck surgery. As a young male who’s had both an abdominoplasty and mastopexy with liposuction, you're absolutely right — most post-op recovery advice is geared toward women, but the principles apply to men as well, with a few key considerations.

After a tummy tuck, your body needs time to heal internal stitches, reduce swelling, and reestablish circulation and lymphatic flow. For most patients — regardless of gender — sexual activity should be avoided for at least 3 to 4 weeks, sometimes longer depending on the extent of the surgery. This includes intercourse, vigorous movement, and straining of the core muscles, all of which could put tension on the abdominal incision or muscle repair.

Now, regarding your more specific question about orgasms and masturbation — don’t worry, it’s not too embarrassing to ask. Orgasms involve involuntary muscle contractions, including in the lower abdominal and pelvic regions, and they can momentarily raise your blood pressure and heart rate. In the first couple of weeks post-op, even this muscle engagement may cause discomfort, pressure, or strain at the surgical site. While most surgeons don’t specifically ban masturbation, it’s best to wait at least 2–3 weeks or until you’re no longer feeling tight or sore in your abdominal area.

If you’re still feeling tenderness or tightness at 13 days post-op, hold off a bit longer — your body is still in the early stages of healing. When you do resume sexual activity or orgasms, start slowly, gently, and in a position that doesn’t put stress on your core.

And remember — healing timelines vary based on procedure complexity, muscle plication, and your personal recovery. If you’re unsure, reach out to your plastic surgeon to get the green light. You’re on the right path, and your careful approach to recovery shows your commitment to a great long-term result.

Sincerely,
Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, MBA, FASMBS, FICS
(Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and President of the American Board of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons)

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals. Depending on the extent of your abdominoplasty and your general physical condition. Any sexual activity should be avoided for a minimum of two weeks.Dhaval M. Patel Double board certified Plastic surgeon Hoffman EstatesBarringtonOakbrook Chicago

Kurtis Martin, MD · Answer

You should be safe for sex at this point in your recovery but there are still some precautions. Since it takes about 6 weeks for your abdominal plication to get strong (provided you had this done), you may want to limit the type of sex you have. No real straining or physical sex until then. Sex with yourself should be fine. If it hurts, you may want to back off and give the wound more time to heal.

Sex After Tummy Tuck for Males?

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Sex After Tummy Tuck for Males?

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Answer: Male tummy tuck and sex

Answer: Male tummy tuck and sex

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Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

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