Will I be able to do gymnastic/aerial sports after a reverse tummy tuck?

Question

Hello - I am 45 years old, 5'5 125 pounds and I am interested in getting a reverse tummy tuck to address loose skin on my upper abdomen from pregnancy. I am very active in aerial sports, much like a gymnast, that rely heavily on my abs. I am wondering if a reverse tummy tuck will effect my performance negatively. Also, I have a wide waistline and might want to consider adding muscle tightening with this procedure. Will I still be able to perform in this sport afterwards?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to begin by visiting with a board certified plastic surgeon near you for a consultation.  Reverse tummy tucks are far less common than standard tummy tucks.  You should be able to return to your current activity level and interests once you have fully healed from surgery.

Alexandrish Karvendrish Rodríguez Tavárez, MD · Answer

Hello! Thank you for sharing your doubts with us. In any type of abdominoplasty with muscle repair it will be necessary to rest, and gradually integrate the exercises. In our practice we always recommend waiting 3 months to lift light weights, and 6 months for abdominal exercises and lifting heavy objects, after this time you can do any type of activity without affecting your health and results. Thanks for trusting us!

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding whether you would be a good candidate for a reverse tummy tuck with muscle plication and whether you will be able to perform aerial sports after your first tummy tuck. First, a physical one-on-one consultation with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon is required. Traditionally, lower abdominoplasties are performed. I wonder why you are considering a reverse tummy tuck. During a reverse tummy tuck, it is difficult to plicate the muscles from the bottom of the sternum to the pubic region. It is much easier to plicate the muscles from a traditional lower abdominoplasty incision. In regards to the ability to return to aerial sports, whether you have a traditional or reverse tummy tuck, I believe you will be able to resume your aerial sports. Remember that the more work that is done on your rectus muscle, the more difficult it will be to return to your aerial Sports. Either way, I would suggest you plan on a 2 to 3-week recovery after your reverse tummy tuck or traditional tummy tuck with or without muscle plication. I would then not engage in aerial sports for approximately 6 to 8 weeks until the majority of the swelling has dissipated. I hope this helps answer your question regarding a reverse tummy tuck with or without muscle plication and the ability to return to aerial sports.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear OCblonde,
I understand your concern. It is best that you consult your plastic surgeon regarding post operative care and management (i.e including massage techniques and timing) specific to your case. Your surgeon knows your condition well and has preferences on when and what to use for faster healing and recovery. Post operative care and management depends on the type of surgery performed and the technique used during surgery among other factors.It is best, however, that you follow your plastic surgeon's advice on post operative care management for a smooth and faster healing and recovery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Will I be able to do gymnastic/aerial sports after a reverse tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Will I be able to do gymnastic/aerial sports after a reverse tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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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.