How Long Do I Need to Wait After Surgery to Get in a Pool or the Ocean?

Thank you for your question! For my patients having a tummy tuck and breast lift procedure, I recommend they wait 6 weeks before submerging incisions in a pool or ocean. 

I recommend that patients avoid swimming pools or whirlpools for at least 1 month, and you should wait at least 6 weeks before doing any vigorous physical activity.

Restrictions typically depend on the techniques involved and the status of the wounds during the post-operative period. Commonly wounds are completely closed by 3 weeks and gentle immersion in water is permitted but this does not mean that body surfing is acceptable. Common sense comes into play here. Discuss your unique situation with your surgeon who will provide you with more relevant guidance.

In most cases patients can return to a pool in 3-4 weeks as long as the incisions are completely healed.  I would caution about heavy exertion after a tummy tuck and breast surgery for about 6 weeks anyway.