How Long After Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Can I Run?

Question

I had Tummy tuck and Liposuction. I am two weeks post-op, abdominoplasty and liposuction around my hips. My current weight is 129. I am a 35 year old wowan.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

If your job keeps you sedentary, you may plan on returning to work in 10-14 days, with the understanding that you can still have discomfort with motion. Please discuss this with the doctor and the nursing staff. Excess swelling may indicate too much activity. Do not plan on resuming aerobic or strenuous exercise for about 6 weeks after surgery. Let your body tell you what it can do.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for asking about the timeline for resuming running after undergoing a tummy tuck and liposuction. This is indeed a common and important question for patients looking to safely return to their fitness routines post-surgery.
In the initial days following your procedure, around 5 to 7 days, you can generally expect to engage in activities of daily living and light movement around the house. The drains that are often placed during surgery are usually removed about two weeks after the procedure.
Approximately four weeks post-surgery, you should be able to walk without significant restrictions. This is part of a gradual return to more strenuous activities, allowing your body adequate time to heal.
When it comes to running, which is a more high-impact activity, most patients are typically cleared to start around 6 to 8 weeks after their tummy tuck and liposuction. It’s important to start slowly and listen to your body, gradually increasing the intensity and duration of your runs.
By around 8 to 12 weeks post-surgery, you should be able to run at your normal capacity, provided that your recovery is progressing well and you have your surgeon's approval. Keep in mind that every individual's recovery timeline can vary, and it's crucial to follow the specific guidance and recommendations of your plastic surgeon.
It's also a good idea to stay in close contact with your surgeon throughout your recovery process. They can provide tailored advice and make sure that you're healing properly before resuming high-impact activities like running.
I hope this information helps you plan for a safe and effective return to running after your tummy tuck and liposuction. Wishing you a smooth recovery and successful return to your fitness routine.
Good luck.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Sacha Obaid, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question! For my patients having a tummy tuck procedure, I recommend that they wait three weeks after surgery before they resume any cardio exercises, such as running or jogging, and six weeks before resuming any vigorous exercises, such as weight lifting and yoga. I recommend discussing specific postop instructions with your board-certified plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

In most instances, my general rule is that you are allowed miles per hour on a treadmill that is equal to the number of weeks after surgery. For example at 1 week, 1 mile/hr; at 2 weeks, 2 miles/hr; at 3 weeks, 3miles/hr, etc. This is a rough guideline and of course, you should consult with your surgeon first.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

It is commendable that you wish to return to exercise as soon as possible after surgery. Your plastic surgeon will be your best resource when it comes to determining the return to specific activities after the specific procedures performed. He/she will know exactly how you are progressing and whether or not you have experienced any complications. Remember, that he/she is ultimately responsible for your care.  Having said that, I ask my tummy tuck patients to start walking ASAP after surgery but refrain from any heavy-lifting or strenuous exercise for 6-8 weeks to prevent complications and ensure proper healing. It may be 4-6 months before you reach your full energy and strength levels. Best to “go slow” and listen to your body as you gradually increase or activity level. Best wishes.

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

Your plastic surgeon is the best source for answering your questions. For my patients I allow light activity at one week, building up to some light physical activity, walking on treadmill, elliptical between the third and fourth weeks. I advise patients to avoid vigorous activities such as training for a road race for eight weeks.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy tucks are a very popular and effective way to contour the abdomen. Patients undergoing this procedure should understand that there is a significant recovery process afterwards. In our practice, we encourage patients to begin walking in yearly after the surgery. This aerobic exercise will help open up their lungs, prevent some fevers, increase their appetite, and help them return and feel back to normal. However, rigorous exercise such as running, going to the gym, or working with weights should be delayed 6 to 8 weeks after surgery.

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Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I usually allow patients to go back to light exercise by 3-4 weeks. I tell them to hold off on sit-ups or heavy lifitng for 6-8 weeks. This is under ideal circumstances.

Nirav Savalia, MD · Answer

I usually recommend waiting at least one month, and then slowly resuming exercise. It may take 2-3 months before you are back to your pre-operative routine. Of course, you should listen to your body as well -- if anything feels unusual or painful, do not continue without consulting with your doctor.

Hisham Seify, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

I tell my patients to start light workout at 6 weeks. Running will come later and varies depending on the recovery , the healing of the incision and the general health status.

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