How long after I have a Tummy tuck with muscle repair can I work out?

An abdominoplasty is a major operation.  In addition to removing skin, the abdominal wall is usually plicated, repairing any diastasis (spread of the sit-up muscles after term pregnancies).  The diastasic repair needs adequate time to heal before resuming strenuous core exercises or sit-ups.  I require my patients to begin light walking the evening of the procedure.  Most patients need to remain flexed at the waist for at least 2-3 days post-op.  By two weeks or so, most patients can resume light cardiovascular activity,  Isolated weight lifting that doesn't stress the core can resume around then; strenuous weight lifting and core exercises including advanced yoga requires a six week recovery period.

It will depend of the extent of surgery; if your TT involves plication (tacking) of muscles it will require longer recovery then skin only abdominoplasty. This is an issue that you have to discuss with your plastic surgeon. We usually recommend walking after 2  weeks and more strenuous exercise involving abdominal muscles gradually after 8-10 weeks. Good luck.

It depends on your workout - and your surgeon.I encourage all of my patients to do some gentle walking starting the day/night of surgery.  Most folks aren't very interested in discussing a return to their exercise routine until at least 2 weeks after their tummy tuck with muscle tightening.  At that point more moderate walking/easy hiking may be well tolerated.  Usually at some point between 4-6 weeks postop, many patients feel ready to get back to their routine.  If it's light cardio or weights (jogging, elliptical, light lifting at the gym), I advise them to start slow and build up their strength and endurance gradually.  More active workouts (CrossFit, kickboxing, even yoga/pilates) might require a little more time.Check with your surgeon about his/her preferences to help you maintain your results after surgery.Hope this helps, and take care.Dr. Lim