Tummy Tuck Recovery

After a tummy tuck, the surgery is over and the recovery and healing begins. For me this was the best part. The fear and anticipation of the surgery was over with and I wasn’t in any pain or discomfort. I was on the down hill slope, as long as any complications didn’t set in. Fortunately none did. More Recovery Information.

How do I go to the bathroom after?

In my case I had no problem going to the bathroom after my surgery. I was able to slowly walk around by myself the day after the operation. I was also fortunate that the toilet that I used had adjacent supports (such as a vanity and tub) that I could hold onto while getting up and down. If you don’t have such supports available to you they can be purchased to suit your needs.

How will I feel after surgery?

t may take 3 – 6 weeks until you feel back to normal, depending on the shape that you are in. If you are in top shape you may feel normal in 1 -2 weeks.

What about sleeping after the operation?

Sleep on your back with your legs elevated. Some people purchase special wedges to place under their legs. Others just use pillows. Some surgeons recommend to their patients to sleep in a chair.

Will I have to wear special garments after surgery?

Yes, see Compression Garments.

When can I shower after surgery?

When to shower after an operation varies with each surgeon and operation. Some say after a few days, others say longer and others say to wait until after the surgical drains are removed.

When can I drive after surgery?

Driving is usually permitted about two weeks after surgery.

Does exercise help recovery after surgery?

Yes, exercise plays a very important role in recovering from surgery. The best and earliest exercise is to start walking as soon as you can.

When can I exercise?

Typically you can exercise lightly in about 3 – 4 weeks following surgery. Go slowly and follow your doctor’s advice regarding exercise. You can hurt yourself if you overdo it. Be careful not to stretch or pull in the area of the stitches or tummy area.

How soon can I sun tan after a tummy tuck?

Sun tanning damages skin, therefore it is recommended to protect your scars from direct sun exposure and tanning for 6 months after your operation.

When can I go back to work after surgery?

Going back to work really depends on how well you are recovering and what type of work you do. For office work typically you can return to work in one to two weeks. For more strenuous manual labor work up to 6 weeks or longer. I felt that one week was about right for me (office work).