You must obtain approval from your aesthetic and plastic surgery specialist before starting exercise after a tummy tuck operation. Regardless of which week you are in, you should not exercise without consulting your surgeon.
Each individual's recovery rate varies. Your surgeon will take your recovery rate into consideration and advise you on what types of exercises you can do during which period. After abdominoplasty, balanced nutrition, drinking plenty of water, wearing a corset, and doing exercises appropriate for the recovery process are situations that require sensitivity.
Exercise timeline after tummy tuck in Antalya
The first six weeks following a tummy tuck operation are crucial for the recovery process. During this period, strenuous or uncontrolled exercise may damage the internal stitches.
Exercises for the 1st to 2nd week after abdominoplasty
During these weeks, light movements and small exercises that support blood circulation are sufficient. No movements that could strain the abdominal muscles should be performed.
- To increase blood circulation, the ankles can be moved in a circular motion while lying in bed.
- Deep breathing exercises can be performed to support lung function.
- Short walks can be taken several times a day, provided they are within the room.
- Shoulder shrugging and stretching movements can be performed to prevent muscle spasms.
Exercises for weeks 3–4 after abdominoplasty
From this week onwards, low-intensity exercises can be performed, starting with cardio.
- Light-paced walks can be undertaken 2–3 times a day for a maximum of 15 minutes.
- Stretching exercises that do not strain the arms, legs, or body can be performed.
- Posture correction exercises can be done to prevent back pain.
- As the healing process is ongoing and the patient is still wearing a corset, all movements should be limited. The abdominal area should not be strained.
Abdominoplasty exercises for weeks 5-6
From this week onwards, exercise durations can be extended slightly. Balance exercises can be performed.
- 30-minute walks can be undertaken.
- Balance exercises can be performed from this week onwards, but it is beneficial to have someone present to assist the individual during exercise. Individuals who have undergone abdominoplasty should choose to exercise in a safe area to avoid falling while performing balance exercises.
- Light arm exercises can be performed.
- Pelvic exercises can be performed lying on the floor without straining the body.
- Sitting exercises can be performed leaning against a wall, as if sitting on a stool, provided they are of short duration.
Exercises for the 7th week after tummy tuck surgery
- Pelvic exercises can be performed by lying on the floor and lifting the hips higher than the previous week.
- Knee-to-chest exercises can be performed by lying on your back on the floor.
- Kegel exercises can be performed.
- Sports such as yoga and pilates can be practised at a beginner level and at a low intensity.
When should exercise not be performed after abdominoplasty?
After tummy tuck, exercise should not be performed until your doctor indicates that you are ready to exercise. Exercises that seriously strain the abdominal muscles, such as sit-ups, full planks, and weighted abdominal exercises, should not be performed for 3 months after abdominoplasty.
Exercise should be stopped immediately if pain, discomfort, stinging, or swelling occurs.
Any complaints caused by exercise should be reported to your aesthetic and plastic surgery specialist.
You should not rush into exercising; wait until your body is ready for exercise.
However, we must point out that this text is for informational purposes only. Your doctor's recommendations should be followed. To have a tummy tuck in Antalya and for more information, you can contact Op. Dr. Bülent Demir.