Tummy tuck with mesh repair - is it safe to do sit-ups 1 year after surgery? (Photo)

Question

1 year ago i had a full tummy tuck with a hernia repair ..but i also do not have a gallbladder to break down my foods so some foods I eat causes bloating at times . I have noticed when i wear my faja garments it helps with the bloating...but my question is is it safe to do sit-ups with out damaging the hernia repair? I'm getting frustrated and tired of always wearing it because it's been a whole of wearing it each day..can I do 50 sit-ups aa night and or planks to help with bloating? Without damage

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding exercise after a tummy tuck and hernia repair. At one year post-surgery, most patients are generally considered well-healed and can typically reintroduce abdominal exercises like sit-ups and planks. However, this can vary based on individual healing and the type of hernia repair, especially if mesh was involved.

Sit-ups and planks place strain on your core, which can potentially stress the mesh repair. While it's likely safe to do these exercises at this stage, starting slowly and carefully is key. Begin with a smaller number of sit-ups or planks, monitoring for any discomfort. Over time, you can gradually increase the intensity as tolerated. If you experience pain or unusual discomfort, it’s best to stop and consult with your surgeon.

Additionally, since you experience bloating due to dietary factors, incorporating core-strengthening exercises along with a supportive diet may help with long-term bloating relief. Wearing your compression garment occasionally can continue to help with bloating, but it’s good to be free from it and let your muscles engage naturally, especially with your activity level increasing.

Congratulations on your excellent results. Another thing to note is that if you had muscle repair with your tummy tuck, you do not necessarily need to put focus on training your abdominal muscles. The muscle repair made your abdomen muscles nice and tight permanently.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You can do sit ups, but the hernia repair is usually never as strong as your initial tissue.  You might try crunches instead.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

One year after surgery you are fully healed.  You should be able to resume pre surgery activities.  When returning to exercise it is advised to begin slowly and gradually build your strength and stamina.  Of course it is always best to check with your surgeon before beginning to exercise as she/he is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you've been progressing through recovery.

Eric W. Anderson, MD · Answer

Hi i generally have my patients stay away from direct abdominal exercises for 6 weeks after surgery. This far out you should be absolutely cleared to begin abdominal/core strengthening. Start slow and listen to your body!

Tummy tuck with mesh repair - is it safe to do sit-ups 1 year after surgery? (Photo)

Answers (4)

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