Your tummy tuck recovery will entail several phases. For the first few days, your abdomen will probably be swollen and you may have some soreness, which can be controlled by the pain medication we prescribe for you.
We will give you detailed instructions for showering and changing your dressings. And though you may not be able to stand straight at first, you should start walking as soon as possible. There is no "bedrest" following this procedure - we want you to move around, though always with caution and with assistance at first.
It may take you a few weeks to feel like your old self again. If you start out in top physical condition with strong abdominal muscles, recovery from abdominoplasty will be much faster. You can start doing normal light activities around the house a few days following surgery, and normal light activities out of the house about a week following your tummy tuck. Some people return to work after about ten days, while others take a bit longer to rest and recuperate.
Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program
to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably. This is usually about three weeks following the procedure. Once you reach the two week point, the main restriction remaining on activity is no heavy lifting of more than fifteen pounds for about six weeks.
Your scars may actually appear to worsen during the first few as they heal, but this is normal. Expect it to take nine months to a year before your scars flatten out and lighten in color. While they'll never disappear completely, abdominal scars usually will not show under most clothing, even under bathing suits.
Content courtesy of American Society of Plastic Surgeons
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