Does Exercise Help with Swelling?

Question

I have had a tummy tuck with lipo of my back. I know it will be a few month before my swelling goes does down, but I would like to know if when i start to exercise again will my swelling subside or will it get worse?

Amy T. Bandy, DO, FACS · Answer

Exercise, in general after any surgery, can increase swelling in the operated area. That does NOT mean that you should not exercise, on the contrary. Exercise helps with increasing blood flow to the tissues which helps with wound healing. The amount and intensity of exercise should be discussed with your operating surgeon so that you do not do too much too soon. Good luck!

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

If you exercise too early, you will most likely compromise your recovery, worsening swelling. However, I encourage all my patients to leisurely walk around after their surgery and remain active, rather than lying in bed all day. This will minimize the risk of deep clots in your leg veins and keep your circulation going, which will help with the swelling. But don't push yourself!Your compression garment should also be worn to help with swelling.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

You really should discuss this with your surgeon.  Let him/her know about the swelling you are experiencing.

Edward J. Bednar, MD · Answer

Depending on your doctor's recommendation and your own post-op recovery-you may be able to start walking slowly on a treadmill after 7-10 days for a short period of time-meaning not to get to the point of sweating as that will cause increase in swelling.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

After the first week or so, it is good to get back to exercise.  Start slowly with just treadmill and then work yourself up to a normal routine.  The increased circulation and movement will be helpful.  If you had a tummy tuck / abdominoplasty, you should refrain from heavy lifting for the first 6 weeks was the internal stitches heal.

	 

	Good Luck.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

In general, patients usually swell a little more whenthey resume activities again after liposuction. When everything starts to move around a fair amount, it can cause some irritation and swelling transiently. This is normal and nothing to be concerned about. I recommend an ice pack 20 min on/off for a few hours after initial exercising if you notice some swelling. This should subside after a week or so of returning to your activities. I hope this helps.

Steven Schuster, MD, FACS · Answer

This is a question best decided on by you and your doctor. Everyone is different in terms of when they let people workout. A simple phone call to your doctor's office may answer the question and you could start on a gentle exercise program tomorrow. Good luck

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Always best to strictly follow the post operative protocols of your chosen surgeon. You paid him, right? Exercise for my personal patients starts at 3 weeks post in most cases. I think you mean massages or ultrasound therapy for swelling not exercise. From MIAMI DR. Darryl j. Blinski

Helen S. Colen, MD · Answer

Exercise after surgery causes more swelling. The tissues have been traumatized and rearranged and their circulation is compromised. Exercise also increases blood pressure hence more swelling. Suggest to abstain till your doctor advises that it is OK. He can only advise you when he examines you to see how your healing has progressed. Postoperative course and your compliance is very important to the success of your surgery. HC

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Tummy tuck has the longest recovery, especially with significant muscle repair and tightening, and exercise should be delayed a full four to six weeks after. Swelling and irritation will return if you push into exercise too soon, much like trying to run on a sprained ankle. You can walk and start slowly with low impact activities such as a recumbent bike which will take the stress off your back and abdomen. Whatever you do, if it causes discomfort or swelling, stop.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

Does Exercise Help with Swelling?

Answers (13)

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