Should You Force Standing After a Tummy Tuck?

Question

I am 7 days post op from a tummy tuck, lipo and breast augmentation with lift. I still can't stand up straight, which I know is normal. My back pain is extremely intense because of this. Last night I forced myself to lay a bit flatter while sleeping to stretch my tummy out. Today I forced myself to stand straight a few times for just a few seconds each. Is this something I should avoid and let my body do it on it's own?

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

I would first consult with your surgeon, However, in my practice, I generally prefer that patients stand upright by 5 days to minimize spasm and contraction.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question but your plastic surgeon should be only resource when it comes to specific postoperative care instructions. As you have probably noted, the advice you receive online will be “all over the place” and therefore confusing;  even potentially dangerous. Follow your own plastic surgeons advise carefully. Best wishes.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

I used to really make a great deal about the bent position after tummy tuck.  I find patient determine their own comfort level with posture.  I don't ex excessively over tighten the patient so that get concerned about stress on the incision.

Dr ES

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

Patients usually assume a straight posture anywhere from 5-14 days after surgery, depending on how tight they are. Back pain is always an issue until posture improves to normal. Listen to your body and gradually get straighter and straighter over the next week. Muscle relaxers can help the back pain in the meantime.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Standind up straight is really dependent upon the elasticity of the skin and the amount of skin excised.  This should gradually improve and you should follow your doctor's recommendations.

Should You Force Standing After a Tummy Tuck?

Answers (8)

Answer: Posture after Tummy Tuck

Answer: Posture after Tummy Tuck

Answer: Standing up after a tummy tuck

Answer: Standing up after a tummy tuck

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Should You Force Standing After a Tummy Tuck?

Answers (8)

Answer: Posture after Tummy Tuck

Answer: Posture after Tummy Tuck

Answer: Standing up after a tummy tuck

Answer: Standing up after a tummy tuck

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.