Exercise at 6 weeks post-op from tummy tuck and breast lift?

Question

While I feel completely physically capable of it, I find myself afraid to move freely or exercise too vigorously. (ie zumba) I'm afraid I will ruin my internal stitches and my wonderfully flat stomach and lifted breasts and end up dumpish looking again. Is this irrational? Is it possible? I've had an ideal recovery with zero complications.

Steven Vath, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. I advise that you abide by your surgeon's guidelines for exercising, however, at 6 weeks post-op, I consider my patients to be restriction-free. At this point, you cannot damage any internal stitching. It is not surprising that you feel tight (that's a good thing!), and you will need to ease slowly back into your old routine. The adage "if it hurts, stop" should be your guide.Happy recovery!

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, assuming your plastic surgeon has given you clearance to proceed, I suggest you gradually add activity over a few weeks instead of trying to return to your pre-surgery work out habits, good luck.

Susan D. Vasko, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Although you are feeling physically capable, you should ask your plastic surgeon for clearance before you return to vigorous activity. They may want you to wait a few more weeks, and you should start with light exercise and work your way up to more strenuous exercise.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Congratulations on an ideal recovery with zero complications!Your PS will tell you when you can return to exercise.  I sometimes recommend that patients refrain from aggressive abdominal muscle workout for longer than six weeks based upon their recovery from the TT. Once you are cleared to return to your exercise routine, start out gradually and build up endurance.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeryLos Angeles, CA

Don Fontana, MD · Answer

Most  surgeons have their own timeline for exercise. Generally, 6 weeks is the beginning point to start light exercises. I do not allow my patients to do any abdominal exercises, even at 6 weeks. Upper body exercising may be started very gradually. Remember that if you elevate your body temperature with exercise, you are likely to have  some swelling in the area of your  surgery. This tendency diminishes   over time.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the tummy tuck procedure. Always best to run these types of questions by your plastic surgeon, who knows exactly what was done, how you are progressing, what type of exercise you wish to return to, and is ultimately responsible for your care.
 Keep in mind that it may be several months before you reach your full strength and stamina.
Generally,  I ask my patients to start walking as of one after surgery.  Most patients are able to return to lower body exercises, such as the use of a stationary bike, 2 to 3 weeks after surgery.  I ask my tummy tuck patients to refrain from any heavy-lifting or strenuous exercise for 6-8 weeks to prevent any complications and ensure proper healing.    Abdominal wall workouts can usually begin about 2 to 3 months after surgery, depending on how the patient is progressing etc.
Best to “go slow” and listen to your body as you gradually increase your activity level. Best wishes.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your surgeon will let you know when you are cleared to return to vigorous exercise.  It's recommended that you begin slowly and work back up to your previous activity level.  You can still hurt yourself if you are too aggressive.  Discuss the situation with your surgeon who is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

Manuel Belen, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hello,Thank you for sharing the information, it is a pleasure for me to answer your question.
The recovery of this procedure without muscle repair is approximately 7 to 8 weeks, you should incorporate gentle exercises, such as walking 30 minutes, then increase the exercises after the total recovery, follow the recommendations of your plastic surgeon for better results.
I hope this answer will help you
My best wishes for you...

Exercise at 6 weeks post-op from tummy tuck and breast lift?

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