Can You Wear a Two-piece Bathing Suit Two Months After a Tummy Tuck?

Question

I recently had a full tummy tuck in June, I'm in my two week post op and things are looking ok, still have some swelling though, So I have this trip in August to the beach and I was wondering if I would be able to wear a two piece bathing suit.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

At this time, your scar is still new and is more visible. It generally takes about a year for scars to mature, by which time it will most likely fade into a silvery thin line. Hyperpigmentation can make scarring more visible, and is worsened by sun exposure. You should avoid exposing your scar to the sun, particularly for the full year after your surgery. You can try silicone gel or silicone sheeting, which can help reduce the appearance of scars. Please ask your surgeon for their advice as well.

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

Thank you for your post.  In general, your incisions need to be perfect, all drains removed and the drain site healed perfect, and the muscle repair needs to be mature with no areas of fluid collection.  If the incisions are not perfect, or drain site, then you are at risk of infection in pools, hot tubs, oceans/lakes.  You don't have to have perfect incisions to shower, just not submerge in bath or the above.  However, I ask my patients to wear their abdominal binder non-stop, except for showers, for at least 4 weeks, so unless you want to hang out at the beach with your binder, then no beach.  Best Wishes, Pablo Prichard, MD

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Majority of swelling will come down in 1-2 months.  It may take two to three months to get the final contour from tummy tuck (with/without liposuction).  You should be able to go on a vacation and wear a two-piece bathing suit.

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

The reason why you and your surgeon worked so hard was so you COULD wear a two piece bathing suite after you healed from your Tummy Tuck surgery. However you must use common sense : 
- use a lot of sunblock - All fresh scars become red when exposed to ultra violet rays (sun or tanning booths)
- you will not have normal tummy skin sensation and will burn before you know it. Do not count on sensation. Look at the skin frequently to make sure you do not burn.

Enjoy your vacation!

Dr P Aldea

Edward J. Domanskis, MD (in memoriam) · Answer

Your swelling should continue to go down but you can wear a bathing suit at any time. Watch my video.

Can You Wear a Two-piece Bathing Suit Two Months After a Tummy Tuck?

Answers (5)

Answer: You CAN wear a Bikini at the Beach after a Tummy Tuck IF...

Answer: You CAN wear a Bikini at the Beach after a Tummy Tuck IF...

Answer: Tummy tuck healing

Answer: Tummy tuck healing

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Can You Wear a Two-piece Bathing Suit Two Months After a Tummy Tuck?

Answers (5)

Answer: You CAN wear a Bikini at the Beach after a Tummy Tuck IF...

Answer: You CAN wear a Bikini at the Beach after a Tummy Tuck IF...

Answer: Tummy tuck healing

Answer: Tummy tuck healing

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.