Exhauastion after tummy tuck. Is this potentially just part of the surgery and my body healing itself? Is this normal?

Question

I’m 8 days post-op. Not on any narcotics or anything other than Tylenol and antibiotics and am healing totally fine. My issue is that a few times out of the blue I will just hit a total wall and be unable to keep my eyes open and just totally fall asleep for like an hour or so. When I wake up I’m foggy but ok. I never take naps and sleep relatively ok at night. Is this potentially just part of the surgery and my body healing itself? Is this normal?

Ricardo L. Rodriguez, MD · Answer

It is normal to feel exhausted during a tummy tuck recovery, and occassionally an antibiotic can also contribute to feeling sleepy. Your body needs a chance to heal well. Listen to your body and rest!
However, it's important to keep your plastic surgeon updated on anything you feel the least bit concerned about. Reassurance from your surgeon can put your mind at ease and help you rest, too.
If you are excessivilty tired to the point of feeling faint, definitely call your surgeon. It's always better to be safe than sorry.
Best wishes!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

What you are describing is a normal part of healing after surgery.  Your body is doing a lot of work behind the scenes to heal you from your procedure.  The result is that you may feel a lack of energy after only minimal effort.  This will improve over time.  Take time to rest and let your body keep up the good work!

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. However, you are still very early in your recovery process. Your body went through a lot of stress during your surgical procedure. Its normal that you feel tired at 8 days post op. Go to your follow up appointments with your surgeon.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

It is totally normal to be exhausted after any major surgery. Your body is working very hard to heal itself, it is important that you do not over do it and listen to your body. Get plenty of rest, you will be back to normal in just a few short weeks. However, you should always discuss your concerns with your surgeon just in case anything else is going on. Good luck.

Michael Zwicklbauer, MD, FACS · Answer

yes it is very normal for patients take 3 to 4 weeks to recover from a tummy tuck. I often tell my patients you can return to a desk job at 10 days to 14 weeks but don’t be surprised if in the afternoon you want to take naps. I think it’s because your body is sending most of its energy to the healing process. Good luck

Exhauastion after tummy tuck. Is this potentially just part of the surgery and my body healing itself? Is this normal?

Answers (9)

Answer: Exhausted After Tummy tuck

Answer: Exhausted After Tummy tuck

Answer: Quite common

Answer: Quite common

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

Exhauastion after tummy tuck. Is this potentially just part of the surgery and my body healing itself? Is this normal?

Answers (9)

Answer: Exhausted After Tummy tuck

Answer: Exhausted After Tummy tuck

Answer: Quite common

Answer: Quite common

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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