At 4 weeks post tummy tuck, what can I do to eliminate/minimize swelling when exercising?

Question

I'm 4 weeks post tt (full abdominoplasty + lipo of upper & lower back and flanks). I would like to begin to exercise (my doctor advised 4 weeks), but I am very apprehensive about it, as I have read all of the "swell hell" posts regarding exercise. Prior to my procedure, I alternated between jogging 5 miles most days with set workouts on the treadmill. I'm afraid of gaining weight but don't want to slow healing. Is there ANYTHING that I can do to prevent or minimize swelling with exercise?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point (4 weeks post-po) the swelling is normal.To reduce it, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.If the after six months post-op, I recommend you send us your photos again, to give you more information about how we can solve this problem.Kind regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Thank you for your question. You are right, it is not uncommon for patients to report some return of generalised abdominal swelling once cardio exercise is resumed. I advise my patients to continue wearing compression throughout the day at 4 weeks post op. As well, when resuming exercise, it is adviseable to start slow and gradually increase the intensity as tolerated. Listen to your body. Everyone is different. If you experience any issues, contact your Plastic Surgeon.All the best

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

1- stay well hydrated and limit your salt intake. 2- begin more with strength (but not core/crunches until OKed by your surgeon)and stretching, yoga, etc. Cardio is what gets your heart rate up, at hey point when your blood vessels may be leaking. This is what causes the swelling. So, introduced cardio more slowly back into your regimen.3- if you are able, wear some sort of compressive garment while you are exercising. If you can tolerate spanx or spandex, this will keep pressure on your tissues (and give support) which may help prevent the buildup of the edema fluid which would otherwise accumulate.4-most importantly, let your body be your guide. If something hurts too much, or you notice  the swelling after a certain maneuver or exercise, hold off on that until you were further along in your process.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

My best advice would be to ease into it slowly. Start with walking at a moderate pace. See how your body reacts and then slowly build back up. If you experience renewed swelling then back off, rest and let your body recover. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Swelling at this stage of your post operative recovery is normal and as you become more active your swelling will fluctuate and you may notice you are much bigger in the evening after a day of activity.  Wear your compression garment while exercising and you may like to try lymphatic drainage to assist with swelling.  I recommend my patient wait 6 weeks before jogging etc.  Its important to gently ease back into your regular excise routine and listen to your body.

Douglas Taranow, DO, FACOS · Answer

Congratulations on having your tummy tuck.Swelling four weeks post op is normal especially later in the day and after exercise.  You have a multitude of options to reduce it.Lower salt intake.Lymphatic massageWearing a compressive garment extending from upper abdomen to the thighs Taking anti inflammatory meds like Motrin or Advil or Arnica/BromelainBest of luck.Dr. T

Raymond Jean, MD · Answer

Wearing a binder or compression garment such as spanx during and after exercise will decrease swelling.  I recommended patients wear these for at least 6 weeks after surgery.  Best or luck.  Also ease back into your exercise routine over the course of several weeks.

At 4 weeks post tummy tuck, what can I do to eliminate/minimize swelling when exercising?

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