Core strength before tummy tuck?

Question

Is it advised to purposely strengthen your core before a tummy tuck and muscle repair? Or is that actually harmful/a bad idea before a tummy tuck? I know it’s hard to get a strong core with muscle separation anyways, but I’m just wondering if doing these exercises in advance would help with recovery after the surgery.

Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHS · Answer

Strengthening your abdominal muscles before a tummy tuck can have some benefits, but it won't directly impact the outcome of the surgery. The surgery primarily addresses the fascia, the connective tissue that holds your abdominal muscles together, rather than the muscles themselves. If you have diastasis recti (muscle separation), the surgery will involve repairing that separation. However, being in good physical condition, including having toned abdominal muscles, can help with overall fitness, recovery, and post-surgery contour. A stronger core can also aid in recovery by improving mobility and providing better support for your body during the healing process. 
It is important to focus on maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle with good nutrition rather than drastically altering your workout routine close to surgery. After the surgery, you will need to avoid strenuous exercises for a while, especially those involving the abdominal muscles, until you’ve fully healed. Always consult with your surgeon to ensure you are following the right pre-surgical instrucitons.
Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHSHarvard, Hopkins, & Mayo Clinic Trained Aesthetic Plastic SurgeonNew York, New York

Ramin Behmand, MD, FACS · Answer

That's a great question. In short, there's no need to strengthen the abdominal muscles before a rectus diastasis repair. Strengthening muscles with significant separation can be uncomfortable and doesn't benefit the repair process. The separation is repaired by sewing the fascia tunnels, not the muscles themselves, as they need to contract and release freely within the fascia. Therefore, muscle strengthening isn’t necessary.

Dr. B.

Core strength before tummy tuck?

Answers (2)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Drainless Tummy Tuck

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

Core strength before tummy tuck?

Answers (2)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Drainless Tummy Tuck

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