How Often Should You Be Up Walking Around 4 Days Post Op Tummy Tuck and Breast Augmentation?

            The
mommy makeover is one of the larger procedures performed in cosmetic surgery.
Following this procedure, the resumption of physical activity is extremely
important to the recovery process.

             In
most cases, we recommend minimal activity for about two weeks following this
procedure, and during this period, light activities such as bathroom and
kitchen privileges are acceptable but nothing more strenuous.

            An
effort should be made to ambulate at least every four hours following surgery.
This minimizes the potential for lower extremity blood clots and their
associated health risks. After two weeks, patients can slowly resume most
activities expect those that involve strenuous exertion. After six weeks,
patients should be able to resume all of their normal activities including
strenuous exertion and heavy lifting.  

Yes, walk walk walk. This is a key time to avoid getting what we call clots or DVT in the calves/legs.  You should try to walk around very 4-5 hours, this does not mean long distances just short walks around the house. As you become more comfortable you should increase the frequency and duration. Additionally deep breathing excercises should be done 10 x an hour every hour that you are awake. I hope this helps.

Thank you for your question! You should be walking the night of surgery! everybodys pain tolerance is different! Best of luck!Dr Dhaval PatelDouble Board Certified Plastic SurgeonChicago Hoffman Estates Oak Brook

Walking around for short periods of time is a good idea after your surgery. Except for the time you're asleep, you should walk around every couple of hours. Stay up and walking around the house until you are tired and ready to go done for a rest.  Gradually increase activity but make sure to take it very easy! Your surgeon should have also provided you with instructions on activity. Please follow them.

    Promoting circulation after mommy makeover is helpful for preventing the development of blood clots in your legs.  Ambulating around your home every 2 hours or so is helpful in this regard.  I do not recommend walking miles in the early postoperative period particularly if liposuction is performed - risk for fluid collection and increased swelling is increased.

Pulmonary complications are much less in ambulatory patients.  I encourage may patients to resume normal daily activity as soon as they can.

I recommend getting up to walk every few hours. When you are in bed move your legs and knees frequently. This is all done to prevent blood clots.

4 days after having a Mommy Makeover, you should be able to lie flat in bed, not needing to be in the lawn chair position any longer.  In my practice, the breast drains are normally removed at 24 hours and the 3 abdominoplasty drains are normally removed at 72 hours.  Therefore, by the 4th day, ambulation (walking around) should be relatively easy.  I recommend getting up and walking around the living room or any other room every 4 hours, and be sure to flex and extend your feet, and possibly rotate them, every hour to decrease the chance of clot formations in the veins of the calf. 

Of course, don't cross your legs and don't cross your feet as you are in a hypercoagulable state this early after surgery, and venous stasis caused by crossing legs or feet could easily lead to clotting.  On the other hand, post operative exercising does not mean doing push ups or overdoing it in the first 5 days or this could lead to bleeding, a hematoma and unnecessary revisionary surgery.

Several times a day, for short periods, always listen to your body, (pain and fatigue). 

Takes Care, Dr. R. Vega / Tijuana, Mexico

The frequency and intensity of walking around after a tummy tuck and breast augmentation surgery can vary depending on individual factors such as the extent of the procedures, your overall health, and your plastic surgeon's recommendations. However, here are some general guidelines:
1. Early Ambulation: It's typically encouraged to start walking around as soon as possible after surgery, even on the first day post-op. Short walks within your home or around your recovery area can help prevent complications such as blood clots, promote circulation, and aid in the recovery process.
2. Gradual Increase: In the first few days following surgery, aim to walk around every 1-2 hours for short periods, gradually increasing the duration and distance as tolerated. Listen to your body and avoid overexertion, but also try to avoid prolonged periods of inactivity, as this can increase the risk of complications.
3. Assisted Walking: Depending on your level of comfort and mobility, you may require assistance when walking, especially during the initial recovery period. You may need someone to help you get up from a lying or seated position and provide support while walking to prevent falls or strain.
4. Avoid Strenuous Activity: While walking is encouraged for promoting circulation and preventing complications, it's important to avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting during the early recovery period. This includes activities that strain the abdominal muscles or chest muscles, as they may interfere with the healing process.
5. Follow Surgeon's Recommendations: Always follow your plastic surgeon's specific post-operative instructions regarding activity levels, walking, and mobility. They will provide guidance tailored to your individual needs and the procedures performed to ensure a safe and successful recovery.
It's essential to prioritize rest and proper wound care while gradually increasing your activity levels. If you experience any unusual symptoms, increased pain, or concerns during your recovery, contact your plastic surgeon for guidance. They can provide recommendations and adjustments to your recovery plan as needed.