When can I walk inside and outside, after a tummy tuck?

Question

When can I walk outside after a tummy tuck. I was told that I will be walking in a 'skiing' position. Thank you.

Jose Perez-Gurri, MD, FACS · Answer

The best of luck to you. NO matter what anyone says on this web, always check with your surgeon. Remember, we all have recipes for success. Personally, I make my tummy tuck patients walk the very day of surgery. There are certain precautions we will take during the first 24 hours but the sooner, the better. One of the more important complications following tummy tuck surgery id a pulmonary complication, more specifically a pulmonary embolus or blood clot to the lungs.The sooner that the patient begins to contract those calf muscles and get the circulation going, the less chance of this complication occurring. Good luck

Jeff T. Healy, MD · Answer

I encourage my patients to be up and walking around the house on the day of surgery.  At first you will be walking slowly and will be bent forward to some degree.  Each day you should plan to walk a little more and increase your activity.  Usually you will be standing up straight within the first week after surgery.  Listen to your body and don't overdo it.  Plan to rest a lot in the first few days after surgery.  As far as walking outside, it depends on the terrain, weather, etc.  Generally you should be able to walk outside within a few days.The main benefit of early walking is that you will decrease the chance of getting blood clots.  You will also feel less stiff and will have more energy.Always remember to check with your own doctor for specific guidelines.  Best wishes for a speedy recovery.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

It is important for your recovery to be up an walking around as early as the night of surgery.  Just be careful during the first week not to over do it.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the tummy tuck procedure. Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to returning to specific activities. He/she will know exactly what was performed, how you are progressing, whether you are experiencing any complications, and is ultimately responsible for your care. Generally speaking, I urge my patients to get outdoors within one week after the procedure is performed. Most of my patients are walking in the flexed position, often with the support of a walker to support their lower backs.  Ambulating is helpful when it comes to avoidance of complications involving the lower extremities and lungs. Getting outdoors, may be also be helpful when it comes to avoidance of significant mood swings ( emotional ups and downs). I hope this, and the attached link, helps.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

Of course you will need to specifically follow the advice of the plastic surgeon who performed your tummy tuck.That said I encouraged my patients to be up and walking the first day after surgery.  It is true that you will need to walk bent forward and it is good to have someone with you during your first excursions outdoors.The benefit of walking is that using your lower legs will prevent the occurrence of blood pooling which can lead to blood clots.  In addition the sooner he or walking and using your postural muscles the sooner you will recover from your tummy tuck surgery.However it is very important that you be stable and not trip or fall or suffer other trauma.  Until you're comfortable walking upright you should always walk with assistance or a walker.

When can I walk inside and outside, after a tummy tuck?

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