How Long Until I Look Good and am Fully Recovered After Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift?

Recovery all depends on how it is defined. For example if you simply sit at a desk and answer the phone or just do computer work than many return to work in as short as 10 days. If heavy lifting is involved then it can be as long as 6 weeks. The time for recovery for Breast Lift is about the same as for a tummy tuck.Here is what to expect. -Within a few hours following surgery, abdominoplasty patients will walk in a slightly bent-over position. Strenuous activity and lifting of more than 10 pounds should be avoided for six weeks after surgery. Most patients are able to return to work and daily activities withintwo weeks of surgery.It may take several months for a tummy tuck and breast lift patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars take a long time to mature to look their best but if done well and hidden in a bikini, then you could be back on the beach in 3 or more months.

I tell my MM patients to expect 4-6 weeks of fatigue before returning to full energy and activity schedule. I tend to place my tummy tuck scars very low on the pelvis, so bikini wearing can commence whenever you feel ready. Most of my patients have returned to 'normal' at about the 4-6 month point. This is a big operation/

The timeline for recovery and achieving optimal aesthetic results after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and breast lift (mastopexy) can vary from person to person, depending on factors such as individual healing capabilities, surgical techniques, and the extent of the procedures performed. While you may notice improvements in your appearance soon after surgery, it's essential to understand that the full recovery process may take several weeks to months. Here's a general timeline to consider:
1. Immediate Postoperative Period (Weeks 1-2):
• During the first few days after surgery, you will likely experience some discomfort, swelling, bruising, and restricted mobility. Pain medication prescribed by your plastic surgeon can help manage discomfort.
• You'll need to wear compression garments to support the healing tissues and minimize swelling. Your plastic surgeon will provide specific instructions on how long to wear them.
• You may have drains in place to remove excess fluid from the surgical sites. Your plastic surgeon will monitor your drainage output and remove the drains when appropriate.
• It's essential to follow your plastic surgeon's postoperative care instructions diligently, including proper wound care, medication management, and activity restrictions.
2. Early Recovery (Weeks 2-6):
• Swelling and bruising will gradually subside during this period, although some residual swelling may persist for several weeks.
• You'll start to see initial improvements in your body contour as the swelling decreases and the tissues settle into their new position.
• It's common to experience fluctuations in energy levels during this phase of recovery. Listen to your body and avoid strenuous activities or heavy lifting as directed by your plastic surgeon.
• You may begin to resume light activities and return to work, depending on your job requirements and your plastic surgeon's recommendations.
3. Mid-Term Recovery (Months 2-3):
• By this time, most of the swelling should have resolved, and your incision lines will continue to fade and flatten.
• Your breasts and abdomen will begin to assume their final shape, and you'll notice more significant improvements in your overall appearance.
• You may be able to gradually increase your level of physical activity and resume more vigorous exercise routines under your surgeon's guidance.
• Follow-up appointments with your plastic surgeon will allow them to monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.
4. Long-Term Recovery (Months 6-12 and Beyond):
• At this stage, you should be fully recovered from surgery, with your final results becoming apparent.
• Incision lines will continue to fade over time, although they may never completely disappear.
• Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, can help optimize and maintain your surgical outcomes.
It's important to keep in mind that individual healing and recovery experiences may vary, and some patients may require more time to achieve their desired results. Your plastic surgeon will provide guidance and support throughout your recovery journey to ensure a safe and successful outcome.

 Thank you for the question.

As you know, you are contemplating major surgery with a significant recovery time period.

I would suggest you give yourself at least 3 months before contemplating bikinis. The results of your surgery will improve for at least the first year after surgery. Patience is critical during this recovery time.

Best wishes.

A large part will depend on how much liposuction will be performed as part of the tummy tuck. More liposuction will lead to additional swelling and will newbies more recovery before you fell comfortable in a bikini. Most people feel comfortable in a bathing suit at 4-6 weeks but healing process lasts about 6 months.

Most people will look good after about 6 weeks. Maybe not bikini good, however! That's more likely to take 3 months.Have fun with your new look!

I agree with what others have said- about 2 weeks back to work, 6 weeks before strenuous activities.  Count on 2-3 months before you look almost normal (not counting the fading of your scars).  If you get implants with your lift they generally will drop into place by 3 months.  Scars may take 1-2 years to fade in the worse case.  You should be able to cover your scars with anything your wear including a bikini.  Keep in mind that it will be a few weeks before you can get in the water (for summer:-). 

This is a great question since so many woman want a tummy tuck, have worked hard to get in shape and do not want to sit around for 6 weeks after surgery and let their conditioning drop off.  They also have kids to take care of and want to get back to work as soon as possible.  If you have a rapid recovery protocol combined with a NO Drain technique, you will find that you can get back to working out very quickly, back to work within days and able to take care of your kids in just a day or so WITHOUT NARCOTICS.  I usually allow my patients to get back to the gym at a week.  At that time they start on limited exercises such as a spin bike, light lap swimming or the elliptical machine.  Fast walking works as well.  From there, my patients start working up to harder exercise.  The only restriction I place on them is to be careful with their abdomen (avoid heavy duty crunches and lifting) and let pain be their guide.

I have added a video that speaks to this issue for you. 

I hope that helps.

Best regards.





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Most patients are fully recovered after a breast lift in terms of return to normal activity after a few days, but I have my patients wear a support bra (and not a bikini) for 6 weeks and not exercise for 2 weeks and not bounce for 6 weeks.  A bikini that would cover the scars at that point would look fine.  A tummy tuck has a longer recovery, and it takes a few weeks (4-6) to really snap back and be back to full activity including exercise.  Some swelling can persist for a few months, and unless the bikini you mention would cover the scars, they will go through a red phase and take months to over a year to fade.

Optimal appearance of a tummy for bikini wear is 3 months post-op.  Most women look great at 6 weeks post op breast augmentation.  Limit activity for 4-6 weeks after surgery.  Don't perform sit ups for 3months after the tummy tuck.