Tummy Tuck Frequently Asked Questions
When Can I?
When can I go back to work?
Recovery from tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery varies from person to person and depends as well on the procedure or procedures done. It also depends, of course, on the type of work you do. You can return to a sedentary job sooner than you could to a very active job. You should allow about 10 days to 2 weeks to recover before going back to work at a sedentary job and about 3 to 4 weeks to return to a labor intensive job.
When can I tan my new body?
You need to wait. Tanning before the scars have matured can result in permanent hyperpigmentation or causing the scars to be darker than the surrounding skin and, therefore, more visible. If you have to get out in the sun, be sure to cover up the scars with clothing or tape to prevent them from tanning. If you want to be really sure, wait at least a year until the scars have matured.
When can I begin having sex again?
Well, there is sex and there is sex. Your body will know better than anyone else when you are ready. It's probably best to wait 10 days to 2 weeks—and take it easy at first.
When can I fly in an airplane?
Although they are rare, complications following tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery can occur. It is important that you be in the area, near the doctor's office, for the first two weeks, so that she can address any problems that come up. Physically, after the drains are removed in 10 to 14 days, flying should not pose a problem, but we need to make sure that you're past any possible complications.
When can I take a vacation?
After your tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery, you will need a period of recovery. You will be sore and likely dealing with some level of pain with the help of pain medicine, of course. Some patients have less pain and some have more pain. In addition, you need to be past the period when complications might occur. The last thing you want is to be away from the doctor and have problems occur. The doctor recommends that you not plan a vacation until at least one month after the operation. By then, you should be well down the road to recovery.
When can I start exercising again?
Exercise will help you heal and feel better. Even if you haven't exercised before, starting an exercise program will be very beneficial to your recovery. It can help reduce the swelling, lower the risk of blood clots, and, of course, tone your muscles. You should start moving around the same day as your surgery by taking short walks around your house with assistance, even though it may be difficult for you to stand up straight. You can start light exercise, like walking on a treadmill or riding a stationary bike after about a week. After about 2 weeks, you can add light weights or an exercise machine, but wait until 6 to 8 weeks have passed before you do strenuous exercise or jogging.
When can I start jogging again?
Jogging is particularly hard on your incisions, bouncing them up and down. Wait at least 6 to 8 weeks or until the doctor tells you you can start jogging again. And remember to wear your supportive garments—always.
When can I ride horses again, jump on a trampoline, jump rope, etc?
All of these activities have a lot of up and down action. The advice above for jogging holds for riding and jumping as well. Wait at least six weeks and remember to wear your binder or good support garments.
When can I go swimming?
Normally, you can start swimming after about a month.
When can I go water skiing or snow skiing again?
Both forms of skiing have the risk of falling and causing physical injury to your body before it's had a chance to heal and strengthen. It is best to wait at least three months before resuming skiing, but be sure to check with the doctor if you're within six months of your tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery.
Can I scuba dive after a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery?
Scuba diving, of course, involves swimming and the recommendations for swimming also apply. Other than that, there should be no additional concerns over scuba diving. The increased pressure at depth should not affect your recovery.
When can I ride a roller coaster?
The main factor is healing. Roller coasters are OK once you're healed. They subject your body to as much force as jogging and riding. Wait at least three months till you're well healed and the danger of poor scar formation is past.
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