How soon after Tummy Tuck can I go on just for a bit? (photos)

Question

I had my TT done on August 20, I feel good i drinking plenty of water but I am going stir crazy at home. I do little light cleaning go up the stairs a few time slowly and I have been taken small walks around the tear drop where I live. I been to the grocery store to get a few things, and feel great I don't push myself I walk hunch over to be sure I am not pulling or tugging at my TT site. Is okay to just get out? I want to go to our local mall its small but just to walk around but my drains r still in.

Lane Smith, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  As each surgeon has their own set of unique post operative instructions, it is always best to first check with your own surgeon.  That being said, we advise our patients to be up an walking the same day as surgery to prevent the formation of blood clots, so it is good you have been up and walking around since your surgery.  As you are 6 days post op, if your recovery has been uneventful, there is no reason why you should not be able to go to the store.  Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

Dana Khuthaila, MD, FRCSC, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question. It sounds like you are feeling well enough to go outside. I encourage my patients to walk the next day after surgery and listen to their bodies. You will know when you are tired and need to take a break. I highly recommend checking with your plastic surgeon before you go. Best of luck and enjoy your outing!Dr. Khuthaila

Ravinder Jarial, DO · Answer

Greetings and congratulations on the successful completion of your surgery. Every surgeon will have his/her particular instructions after a tummy tuck.  In general, there will be some postoperative restrictions on lifting and activities requiring exertion. It would be helpful for you to also discuss this with your surgeon. Best wishes.

Joseph Franklin, MD · Answer

After tummy tuck, I recommend that my patients start walking the day of surgery.   Not power walking... simply getting up and around.   When getting out, keep in mind that the drains can easily get caught on things.   So, just be careful.   It is probably OK for you to go to the mall and walk around.   Would check with your plastic surgeon or his/her staff to double check.   Best of luck with your continued recovery.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and the photographs. Typically I will allow patients to begin walking, not power walking, the day after surgery. By 3 weeks the patients are allowed to increase their level of activity to power walking or light jog, but no lifting of weight or abdominal exercises. I release patients to full, unrestricted activity at 8 weeks post op. Therefore, you should be able to do many of the things you ask about. Having said that, each surgeon has their own style in the post operative management of the patient. I would therefore recommend to discuss this with your chosen plastic surgeon. I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, Tamari71.  Thanks for your question and photos.  Also, congratulations on your recent surgery.  It is great that you are "feeling great" and that you want to be active.  My advices for you are as followed.1. Listen to your body. Often times, your body will tell you if you are overdoing things.2. Don't overdo your activities.  Certainly, walking is great and encouraged.  Walking up/down the stairs is okay. It is okay to get out.3. Keep the compression garment.4. Follow your plastic surgeon's recommendation.  Each plastic surgeon can vary in his/her post-operative regimen.  Since your plastic surgeon knows your body and is there to see your progress, listen to him/her.Good luck with your recovery!

Jose Hungria, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello, It is good that you have that courage, patients like you recover faster than others that stay lying at bed all day. You have 6 days post surgery and the drain still on you, so walk around the house, go to the grocery store near by. But try not to get to tired. I suggest that you consulted with your plastic surgeon. Good Luck

George Lefkovits, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

I usually recommend that patients start walking the day sfter surgery. It's actually important to start walking around. With that in mind you should be able to go to the mall to browse, but you should have someone accompany you.. When you feel weak you should sit down for a while.

How soon after Tummy Tuck can I go on just for a bit? (photos)

Answers (8)

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