Does Abdominal Muscle Work After Tummy Tuck?

Question

I've manage to gain some weight back after having a tummy tuck 3 years ago.  Relaxed, my abs show a slight bulge now.  Are there specific exercises I can do to get my muscles back in shape and tightened again?
Having had a c-section before my plastic surgery, I'm clear that my muscles were not going to work again around my tummy - with the surgery does that change?

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

I would work with a personal trainer who is experienced in core strengthening using a Pilates or Yoga regimen. Your muscles should be capable of functioning.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for your question about the functionality of abdominal muscles after a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty). It's a common concern, especially regarding how the surgery might affect your core strength and ability to exercise.
You'll be pleased to know that, yes, your abdominal muscles do continue to work after a tummy tuck. During the procedure, if muscle plication (tightening) is part of your tummy tuck, the rectus abdominis muscles (which run vertically from your lower sternum to your pubic bone) are sutured together. This process is designed to repair muscle separation and strengthen the abdominal wall. Despite this alteration, the muscles maintain their original orientation and function.
When these muscles contract, such as during activities like sit-ups, they still flex in the same way they did pre-surgery. This means that after a tummy tuck, you can still perform abdominal exercises effectively. However, it’s important to allow a moderate amount of time for proper healing before engaging in strenuous abdominal exercises. Typically, a period of 4 to 6 months is recommended to ensure adequate healing and to prevent any disruption to the surgical repair.
After this healing period, exercises like sit-ups and other core-strengthening activities are not only allowed but are beneficial. They can help enhance your core strength, including both the rectus abdominis and the external oblique muscles.
To safely incorporate abdominal exercises post-tummy tuck, you may consider consulting online resources for specific exercises, joining a gym, or working with a physical trainer who can provide personalized guidance and ensure that you're exercising in a way that supports your surgical results.
In conclusion, rest assured that your abdominal muscles remain functional after a tummy tuck. With appropriate healing time and gradually reintroduced exercise, you can continue to strengthen and tone your core muscles.
Wishing you a smooth recovery and success in your fitness journey post-surgery.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Dev Wali, MD · Answer

Usually with a tummy tuck the muscles are tightened to correct for changes that happen with pregnancy. In some people the mucles can loosen over time creating the same bulge that was present before the tummy tuck. Diet and excercize can help but you should see your surgeon to find out what the cause of the bulge is.

David Rankin, MD · Answer

Your muscles are sutured back into a normal position during a tummy tuck. This should be a long lasting result. Extensive weight gain and pregnancy could potentially spread the muscles apart again but this weight gain would have to be fairly significant. Definitely try some abdominal strength exercises and some weight loss to see if your body returns to where it was right after your tummy tuck.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

The muscles are usually plicated during a tummy tuck. The muslces should work fine after the tummy tuck.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy tucks are a very popular and effective way to contour the abdomen. As part of the surgery, your surgeon will typically perform a muscle repair where they bring the muscles that have been separated together. This muscle repair will take some time to heal. In our practice, we typically recommend that patients returned to the gym only after 6 to 8 weeks from their surgery. At that time they may begin aerobic exercise and using weights.
	Patients can continue to improve the appearance of their tummy tucks by participating in a rigorous exercise regimen and continuing a low-fat and balanced diet.
	If you have gained weight after a tummy tuck, meeting with a nutritionist or a personal trainer who can help you design a program that will meet your goals. As you continue to lose weight, you will feel better and your tummy tuck will only look better

	To learn more about tummy tucks, see photos, and help you decide which one is best for you, please visit us at the link below:

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi!  This is true whether or not you had a previous C-section.  Abdominal crunches and losing a few pounds now should get you your looks back.
The most you might need is a little liposuction of the abdomen.  The rectus muscles of your stomach are repaired during a tummy tuck, and they stay repaired even if you put on a few pounds.

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