After a tummy tuck, even the simplest movements can be challenging in the first few weeks. During this period, sitting, standing up, or using the toilet may be uncomfortable. This is because the abdominal muscles and skin have been tightened, making the area sensitive, and sudden movements can cause tension along the incision line. The swelling and oedema in the area also increase this tension. Bending, sitting, or standing up can be difficult until the muscles adjust to their new position. To protect the stitches and reduce discomfort, it is important to sit properly on the toilet. In this article, we explain how to sit safely while protecting the stitches.
6 Steps to sit on the toilet after a Tummy tuck
1. Use a toilet riser or elevated seat
Using a raised toilet seat (toilet riser) makes sitting down and standing up easier. This device allows you to sit and stand without bending over excessively or putting strain on your abdominal area. It provides significant ease and comfort, particularly for patients during the first 2–3 weeks after surgery.
2. Move slowly and carefully
After surgery, the abdominal muscles are tense and sensitive. Therefore, move slowly and carefully. Lean your body slightly forward when approaching the toilet. Sudden bending or straightening can strain the stitches. Slow and controlled movements help protect the incision area.
3. Use support when sitting down
When sitting on the toilet, use your leg muscles rather than your abdominal muscles. Sit down slowly, placing your hands on a stable surface (such as the sink edge, a wall, or a grab bar). This helps maintain your body's balance and prevents strain on the abdominal area.
4. Keep a slight bend in your waist
Your surgeon will advise you to keep your waist slightly bent forward during the first few weeks of recovery after a tummy tuck. This position reduces tension in the abdominal area and protects the stitches.
5. Take your time standing up
Don't rush when standing up. Support yourself with your hands on your thighs or a stable surface. Slowly straighten up using your leg strength, without straining your abdominal muscles. Sudden straightening or standing upright may cause pain along the incision line.
6. Keep your incision protected
You can support your abdomen with a small cushion when sitting down and standing up from the toilet. This support provides safety and helps reduce pain during movement.
What to avoid when using the toilet after a Tummy tuck?
Avoid moving quickly when sitting down or standing up from the toilet. Straining on the toilet also increases abdominal pressure. Make sure to drink plenty of water and eat fibre-rich foods. If you become constipated, use stool softeners as recommended by your doctor, if necessary. Do not sit with your upper body twisted. Use your leg muscles rather than your abdominal muscles when moving.
Paying attention to these points will help protect the stitches made during tummy tuck surgery in Antalya and promote faster healing.
Stay hydrated and avoid straining
Medications used after surgery and periods of immobility can cause constipation. Therefore, make sure to drink enough water throughout the day. In addition, consuming fibre-rich foods (vegetables, fruit, and whole grains) helps regulate bowel movements. Constipation can cause straining on the toilet, which puts pressure on the abdominal area and causes pain. Therefore, be careful not to strain.
When can you sit normally after a Tummy tuck?
Patients can usually sit more comfortably 2–3 weeks after surgery. However, this period may vary depending on each individual's rate of recovery. Patients can gradually begin to sit more upright as the swelling subsides and skin tension decreases. To sit fully upright, it is necessary to wait for the suture line to heal and for the abdominal tissues to relax. You should follow the timeframe recommended by your doctor.
Follow your surgeon’s instructions
Every patient's recovery process is different. For this reason, follow the specific instructions given to you by your doctor. Your surgeon will provide you with the most accurate information regarding sitting positions, when to return to a normal posture, and which movements are prohibited.
This blog post is intended for general informational purposes. Your needs may differ depending on your own recovery journey. Therefore, stay in contact with your surgeon and follow their advice.
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