How long before im playing tennis again? Also would you recommend wearing some type of binder while playing to protect my abs?

Question

Scheduled for a tummy tuck in dec. only 100 pounds. Diastasis recti, skin removal and possible umbilical hernia. How long before im playing tennis and should i wear a abdomen binder to protect abs while playing

Shlomo Widder, MD · Answer

Dear Elle,   As a passionate tennis player myself, I feel for you, as you will have to give up this wonderful sport for at least 6 weeks. This is for your own protection and the longevity of the good outcome.     Once you recover from surgery, your game will improve, due to better movement on the court and more powerful strokes. So the sacrifice is definitely well worth it.  Word of caution. Not all results are the same since experience and skills are of paramount importance. So, do you due diligence and choose wisely.     Always, consult with experienced board certified plastic surgeons who operate in accredited surgery center for your safety. Check the before and after pictures in the photo gallery, to make sure that they are numerous, consistent and attractive. Check also the 'realself' reviews for positive experience reports.                 Best of luck,                                   Dr Widder

Frank J. Ferraro, MD · Answer

Very good question. I ask my abdominoplasty patients to wait 4 weeks before they start physical exercise. They are also advised to start slowly and yes a supportive garment is important. You are in good shape so you seem to be able to stay on schedule. Again there are many factors that have to be considered. Hope this helps!

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

In my opinion, my patients reframe from vigorous physical activity for six weeks. Tennis is an especially vigorous activity and I would recommend at least six weeks before you start to play. It would not hurt to have a compression garment once you begin to play. Please seek the advice of your operating plastic surgeon.

Damien Grinsell MBBS, FRACS (Plast) · Answer

Hi. I recommend walking straight away. No heavy exercise or lifting for 6 weeks. Light exercise at 4 weeks. Tennis would be 6-8 weeks. A formal binder will be uncomfortable. I would just use an elasticised stocking called tubigrip. Regards

George Lawson III, MD, FACS · Answer

Only your board - certified Plastic Surgeon 
should tell you when to go back to work and increase your activity as he
 or she monitors you
 postoperatively.  Everyone's surgery and recovery is a little 
different.  My tummy tuck patient's typically begin to do light cardio 
at 3-4 weeks, but walking is encouraged even the day of surgery.  I would think that you may not be able to do tennis for about a month afterwards.  The abdominal binder initially helps keep swelling and fluid down, but you may feel more secure wearing this during strenuous activity long after surgery.

Michael K. Obeng, MD, FACS (license on probation) · Answer

Great question. It takes the body/ incisions/ repairs  about 6 weeks to get back to 80% of its original tensile strength. This is the reason why most people are told to wait 6 weeks after surgery to resume any strenuous activities or exercises. You should be able to play tennis at that time and yes some form of compression garment or binder is always a smart choice and recommended. Good luck!

William A. Terranova, MD (retired) · Answer

Every surgeon has his or her own "rules" for resuming post-op exercise and activity.  So check with yours.  Generally, with my patients, I tell them that they should be ready to resume limited exercise/sports in six weeks.  The emphasis is on limited.  And yes the binder will most certainly help and be recommended.  Good luck.

How long before im playing tennis again? Also would you recommend wearing some type of binder while playing to protect my abs?

Answers (7)

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