Is 5.5 weeks enough time to be healed from a tummy tuck?

Question

I’m 48 with 2 kids and booked in for tummy tuck and breast reduction from a lifetime DD to a C cup. I have an overseas big wedding holiday with my family 5 1/2 weeks after my op. My Dr says I’ll be tfine but I’d like check as I have seen a lot of post op here up to 3 weeks then 3 months but not much in between. There will be a lot of walking and travelling involved. I’m concerned it’s not correct information and like more opinions. Thanks

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding postop healing time after a tummy tuck.

Generally, after six weeks post surgery you should be cleared of most restrictions (assuming there were no complications).

I recommend that you double check with your surgeon and let him know about the trip you have.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello !

It's understandable to have concerns about the recovery period after undergoing a tummy tuck and breast reduction, especially if you have a big event planned just a few weeks later.

While it's true that every person's recovery will vary depending on a variety of factors, most plastic surgeons recommend taking at least two to three weeks off work or regular activities to allow for proper healing. In some cases, it may take longer to fully recover.

It's also important to keep in mind that travel and excessive physical activity should be avoided during the early stages of recovery to reduce the risk of complications and to allow your body to heal properly.

You should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and ask for more specific details about your recovery timeline, including when you can resume regular activities and travel. They can give you a more accurate idea of what to expect based on your individual case.

In general, it's important to give yourself enough time to properly recover before engaging in any strenuous activity, and to follow your surgeon's post-operative instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and safe recovery.

Best of luck !

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

It's important to understand that every patient's healing process is different and can vary based on a number of factors including age, health status, and extent of surgery. In general, it's recommended that patients wait 6-8 weeks for full recovery before engaging in more strenuous activities such as extensive walking or traveling. While your surgeon may have given you the green light, it's important to listen to your body and avoid overexertion during this time. You may also want to consider discussing any concerns you have with your surgeon and possibly even delaying the trip until after you have fully recovered. Ultimately, prioritizing your health and healing process should be the top priority. Thank you for your question and wishing you a safe and successful surgery and recovery.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen.

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

While everyone's healing process is unique, five and a half weeks is generally considered a relatively short period after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). Healing time can vary based on individual factors, the extent of the surgery, and how well post-operative care instructions are followed.

Here are some general points to consider:

Initial Healing: By 5.5 weeks, you may have seen significant improvement in terms of reduced swelling and bruising. Many patients can return to light activities and work within a few weeks, but the level of physical activity allowed depends on the specific post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon.

Full Recovery: While you may feel much better after 5.5 weeks, full recovery from a tummy tuck can take several months. It's important to be patient and follow your surgeon's guidelines for activity restrictions, garment usage, and other post-operative care.

Scar Maturation: The appearance of scars will continue to evolve over time. It may take several months for scars to fade and flatten. Your surgeon might recommend scar management techniques to optimize the healing process.

Physical Activity: Strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and certain exercises may still be restricted during the early stages of recovery. Your surgeon will provide guidance on when it's safe to resume normal activities.

It's crucial to attend all follow-up appointments with your surgeon, adhere to their recommendations, and communicate any concerns or questions you may have during the recovery process.

Always consult directly with your plastic surgeon for specific advice based on your individual case. They can provide the most accurate information regarding your progress and guide you on when it's safe to resume various activities.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi therealmeisfree,
It will be important for you to discuss postoperative restrictions with your surgeon. When problems happen after surgery, they will typically present within the first few months. As such, it is good to have an easy line of communication, and ideally be able to see your surgeon, in case anything arises. Especially with travel, which will generally involve lots of walking and lifting, please note that you will have a lifting restriction even at 5-1/2 weeks, and the act of travel including moving luggage and placing things in the overhead compartment, will likely violate your postoperative restrictions.
Ultimately, I would suggest that you have a detailed discussion about postoperative restrictions with your surgeon.
I hope this helps
Sincerely,Christopher Pannucci, MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane, Washington

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear therealmeisfree,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry,  I unfortunately do not know your overall health or how you heal usually. It is true that 6 weeks is a good time frame to quote people who have "uneventful" recoveries that they can resume many activities including travel abroad. Hope you have a speedy recovery and a safe trip.

Morad Askari, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your question. Traveling at 5.5 weeks post-op is generally possible, but there are a few important considerations to remember. First, you will likely still experience some swelling, and flying may exacerbate this. Additionally, the walking involved with travel can be tiring on a recovering body and may also contribute to more swelling. Please also be aware that if any complications arise after surgery, they may delay your healing and recovery time. I encourage you to speak with your surgeon even more and outway to benefits vs risks. They can provide you with personalized recommendations based on your individual circumstances.

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Individual recovery depends of the extent of surgery and general health. For patient in good health it may be sufficient to have 5 weeks after surgery to recover. However, you may still be occesionaly exhousted after such a chellenging trip/event; plan your activities wisely. Hope this helps. Good luck.

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question!
You will probably feel pretty good,  but you will still have some swelling. The traveling and walking may increase the swelling. Speak with your surgeon with your concerns. Have a great trip! Best wishes!

Is 5.5 weeks enough time to be healed from a tummy tuck?

Answers (15)

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