I would like to know if I could go back to work after 2 weeks of having my tummy tuck?

Question

I just had my tummy tuck yesterday January 13th 2014 I was wondering if I would be able to go back to work within two weeks I am a waitress flash cashier and on my feet most of the day

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Your ability to return to work after an abdominoplasty depends on what type of work you do. If you have a desk job, you should be able to return to work two weeks after an abdominoplasty. If you do return to work, I would insist you do no lifting more than 5 pounds.If you have a very physical job which requires a lot of lifting and moving (like construction work),  I would suggest you be allowed to return to work 4 to 5 weeks after an abdominoplasty. Again, I would insist no lifting more than 5 pounds for the first two weeks.

Don Fontana, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. In my practice, a patient rarely returns to  work at 2 weeks after a full tummy tuck with muscle tightening and liposculpting. There are exceptions, and these patient usually have desk  jobs, working  at home or in the office. I have my patients wear a garment and abdominal garment  for a  minimum of 3-6 weeks.Bottom line: Is it possible to return to work after 2 weeks? Yes....but only sedentary  work,                    It is more likely after 2 1/2 - 3 weeks.

Gaurav Bharti, MD, FACS · Answer

Two weeks after a tummy tuck returning to work where you may be holding heavy weight and on your feet for long periods would be early for my patients. I would discuss the matter with your surgeon. I have patients start slow and avoid any heavy lifting and highly exertion activities for 4-6 weeks. Your work may be able to accommodate your needs so you can start cautiously and then resume normal activity over time without jeopardizing your employment. Good LuckGaurav Bharti

Lori H. Saltz, MD (retired) · Answer

Speaking from both personal and professional experience I would say probably not.  You will tire easily.  Depending how tight your surgeon makes you, you may not be able to stand straight all day and your back will get sore.  Pushing yourself will only set you back and prolong your recovery.  You may be able to work four hour days seated two or three times a week, but not full days standing all week.  Three or four weeks may be more realistic.  See how you feel.  Full recovery takes longer than you think and longer than most surgeons will tell you who have never had one themselves.  There is a wide variation among patients in their level of pain tolerance, but I tell patients who have more active jobs 3-4 weeks.  More sedentary jobs 2-3 weeks.  Nurses and more physical jobs I say 4-6 weeks.

I would like to know if I could go back to work after 2 weeks of having my tummy tuck?

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