How long does it normally take to fully walk upright after tummy tuck?

Question

I'm experiencing extreme muscle pulling over entire abdomen and cramping in bilateral upper quadrants when attempting to walk upright at 2 1/2 weeks post-op.

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Congratulations on your surgery. Most of my patients are fully upright about 2 weeks. There are some however that take longer. The diastasis repair and subsequent muscle spasm can take 4-6 weeks to resolve. In rare cases, patients still have difficulty even a couple of months out. Best of Luck!

Thomas A. Mustoe, MD, FACS · Answer

When the muscle is tightened (diastasis correction) stitches penetrate the muscle and can take a long time to work their way through.  Until then pain when straightening can be significant.  I would consult with your surgeon.  This is taking longer than average but does not necessarily mean anything is wrong.  I would follow up with your surgeon.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you Mommie_Of_Two for your question.  Typically my patients are walking more or less upright within the first week.  Every patient is different though during the recovery process. I would follow up with your surgeon and ask any questions that you may have and follow his or her recommendations.  Best of luck to you.

Peter N. Butler, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question.  While every patient is different, most patients can walk completely upright by 3 weeks post-op.  You should certainly follow-up with your surgeon, but you it is likely you will be standing up straight in the next week or two!

Emmanuel De La Cruz, MD · Answer

Hello Mommie_Of_Two,
Congratulations on your recent abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) procedure! When walking or standing, keep in a bent position to avoid complications, tightness and tension. You may start increasing your movements and straighten up gradually, but there should be no strenuous activity for at least three weeks after your tummy tuck surgery. However, this requirement varies based on the degree of muscle tightening and skin removal. It is important that you get up and walk as soon as you can, even if you are bent over. Walking helps improve circulation, which decreases any tummy tuck risk that may develop, such as potentially life-threatening blood clots. Wearing your compression garment as directed reduces the likelihood of loose or sagging skin after an abdominoplasty, and also helps to control swelling, resulting in a shorter recovery period. Since every case is different, consult with your surgeon about your specific needs and concerns. With appreciation, Dr. De La Cruz.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is normal for the abdomen to feel tight after a tummy tuck.  At two and a half weeks you should be able to walk more upright.  Being in a constant hunched position can cause strain on your lower back.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns.  I've included a video addressing this that I hope you find helpful.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It varies from person to person. Generally about a week. Please continue to follow the instructions from your PS

Thomas Trey Sands, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. This time varies from patient to patient, however, most people take about 2 weeks until they are able to stand upright. This doesn't mean you are fully healed. We typically advise no heavy lifting or excercise/activity until 8 weeks to allow the muscle repair to heal adequately. I hope this helps.

Omar Fouda Neel, MD, FRCSC, FACS · Answer

Hi thank you for your inquiry.  Most of my patients may feel ready to begin walking upright after the second week.  This may vary from one patient to the next.  It is important to keep the abdominal compression garment on for a minimum of 6 weeks, or until your surgeon decides.   If you feel pulling or cramping this is a sign to that you’re extending yourself too much, surgical recovery is individual.  Good luck

How long does it normally take to fully walk upright after tummy tuck?

Answers (9)

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