Tightness under bust after tummy tuck. Can doing gentle back bends disturb anything at this point?

Question

I am almost 4 weeks post op with a fantastic recovery - diastasis hernia / muscle repair, drainless, painless (Exparel) abdominoplasty, after 3 big kids. Very happy with results + recovery so far. Although I was walking straight after a week or so, my posture is not yet back to normal, due to the tightness under my bust. I am used to walking with a strong back, shoulders back but I seem to be defaulting to a less good posture. Can I do small back bends to try to 'fix' this or should I just wait.

Mary Ann Contogiannis, MD · Answer

I recommend you see the original surgeon for advice on your pain and/or activity level. Your doctor will know best how the surgery was performed, and can likely give you best solution.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At four weeks post op you are still early in your recovery and a feeling of tightness is not uncommon.  I do not suggest you do stretches until you are cleared by your surgeon to do so.  I've included a video about walking after a tummy tuck that I hope you find helpful.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear MJM_Happy,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, discomfort and tightness are very normal. I recommend my patients to wait, at least 4-6 months to resume any workout.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Jeffrey C. Hamm, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!
The procedure of abdominoplasty involves repair of the rectus abdominis muscles which are usually stretched apart during pregnancy. If exercise is begun too early, there is risk of damage to the muscle repair. 
In our practice, we discourage exercise for the first 4-6 weeks, depending upon the status of one's healing. Light exercise is then pursued thru the 8th week, after which time full exercise can be resumed.
Follow your surgeon's instructions as he / she is best able to judge your healing.
Best wishes...

Tightness under bust after tummy tuck. Can doing gentle back bends disturb anything at this point?

Answers (5)