How long does it take for muscles to completely heal after Tummy Tuck? (photo)

 Congratulations on having undergone the tummy tuck procedure. I find that many  patients ( and their plastic surgeons) underestimate the actual recovery time associated with extensive operations such as tummy tuck surgery. The operation is associated with a very significant physical, and often "emotional", recovery period.I ask my tummy tuck patients to refrain from any heavy-lifting or strenuous exercise for 6-8 weeks to prevent any complications and ensure proper healing.  Even at 2 months post op patients will report that they have not reached full strength/stamina. It may be 4-6 months before patients reach full strength.   Your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource when it comes to returning to specific activities. My best suggestion: start slow,  gradually ease back into activities, and listen to her body as you do so.   Best wishes.  

Hello dear, thanks for your question and provided picture as well. Following surgery, you walk in a bent-over position to keep tension off
the newly tightened skin incision site. Although strenuous activity, and
lifting more than ten pounds, must be avoided for 6 weeks, some people
can return to work and daily activities as soon as 2 weeks after
surgery. Softening of the surgical scars, return of sensation, and
loosening of the tight sensation may take several months to a year or more.Abdominoplasty
involves a recovery period of 10 to 14 days longer than most plastic
surgical procedures. Initial discomfort and decreased mobility is
typical. 3-5 days or more of assistance at home is usually indicated.
Light activity is comfortable in 10-20 days. No sports or heavy lifting
for 6 weeks or more. Excess swelling may indicate too much activity. Do
not plan on resuming aerobic or strenuous exercise for about 6 weeks
after surgery. Your surgeon will guide you as to the specific time to
resume key physical activities and sports.Good luck :)

Hi, thank you for your question and congratulations on your #TummyTuck! In my practice, most patients will be
placed in an abdominal binder, which they will wear the first week. There is
usually a fair amount of swelling and the binder should be opened several times
a day so that there are no pressure points. After the first 7 to 10 days the
patient is placed in an elastic garment for #compression over the next six
weeks.

#Swelling can persist for
several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months,
six months, and even one year.

You can return to full activity without restrictions at 6 weeks. But, you need to listen to your body! Sometimes all you can do are stretches and slowly move into more exercise as your body allows. Be sure to follow your #postop #recommendations from your PS and obtain his release before you begin. Best wishes!