When Can I Go Back to my Pilates and Zoomba Classes After my Mommy Makeover?

Although guidelines will vary from surgeon to surgeon, I advise my patients not to engage in any exercise for at least 6 weeks after surgery. It might seem like a long time but it really is an important aspect to the healing process. It is also very important that when you have received the go ahead from your surgeon that you return to regular exercise as if were the first time. Listen to your body and don’t push yourself too hard too fast.

I usually allow my patients to resume exercise 6 weeks after a mommy makeover. The limiting factor here is the tummy tuck. If you start straining your abs too soon, you can tear the sutures used to tighten your muscles. Fixing that can require re-doing almost the entire procedure so it's definitely something you want to avoid.

That said, if you ask this question to ten different plastic surgeons, you'll probably get ten different answers. So definitely check with yours before doing anything.

I generally recommend no heavy lifting or strenuous activity (no exercise) for 4 to 6 weeks after tummy tuck. After six weeks, I encourage patients to slowly resume exercise routines *gradually*. Remember, during the six week postoperative period - you will be deconditioned. I do prepare patients do notice some increased swelling once exercise is resumed. Over the next several weeks, this post-exercise edema will no longer manifest. Exercise itself will not help reduce this swelling.  If swelling manifests during your workout routine, you may benefit from use of compression garments.   But please check with your surgeon with respect to his/her specific recommendations.  Enjoy your results!

Dr. Basu

Houston, TX