After a tummy tuck, are you allowed to move around?

Moving Around after Tummy Tuck is not only permitted but encouraged to prevent venous clots in your legs (deep venous thrombosis). I have my patients walk every 1-2 hours while awake. Generally following TT surgery, you will be walking in a bent-over position to keep tension off the newly tightened skin incision site. Although strenuous activity, and lifting more than ten pounds, must be avoided for 6 weeks, some people can return to work and daily activities as soon as 2 weeks after surgery. Softening of the surgical scars, return of sensation, and loosening of the tight sensation may take several months to a year or more. Abdominoplasty involves a recovery period of 10 to 14 days longer than most plastic surgical procedures. Initial discomfort and decreased mobility is typical. 3-5 days or more of assistance at home is usually indicated. You will be encouraged to move and walk regularly starting the day of surgery. Wearing your TED stockings at all times, except while washing, to prevent venous clots (deep vein thrombosis) is mandatory. Light activity is comfortable in 10-20 days. No sports or heavy lifting for 6 weeks or more – please discuss with your doctor for specific questions.

Thank you for your question.  After a tummy tuck procedure, we encourage our patients to be up and walking with assistance that same day.  During the first week to two weeks we recommend walking in a slightly hunched over position to alleviate some stress off the abdominal muscles.  Typically, if recovery is uneventful, many patients are able to resume light office work one week post operative.  We strongly advise against any strenuous activities that would involve the abdominal muscles for a minimum of 3-6 weeks.  Best regards,Dr. Lane F. Smith, MDPlastic SurgeonLas Vegas, NV

I have my patients begin to walk around the house the next day of possible. This is important to prevent blood clots and it usually makes patients feel better to get out of bed. Certainly don't over do it however. By two weeks my patients are standing straight, are doing most day-to-day activities and have returned to work. I allow them to begin exercising at three weeks however it is usually 6 weeks until they are adding core exercises.Good luck with your recovery.