Certain areas on the body are more difficult to tone than others. The tummy is one such problem area. For this reason, some patients choose to undergo abdominoplasty, also known as a tummy tuck, to address that excess fat.
After surgery, it is important to follow a well-planned exercise routine that helps maintains muscle tone and does not let excess fat develop in the area.
Many people wonder when they can exercise following abdominoplasty surgery. However, as every person is different, it is essential to wait until the surgeon approves before starting an exercise regimen.
Plastic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey provides tummy tuck surgery to patients in Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, and surrounding locations.
Exercise for Recovery
In the initial week after the surgery, the patient will need plenty of rest and should restrict their exercise to walking to enhance blood flow, reduce inflammation, and decrease the risk of blood clots. As the patient has the drainage tubes and sutures initially, they should walk only when they are able to do so easily.
Light Exercise
Most soreness resolves in around two weeks. At this time, the patient should start cautiously expanding their exercise regimen. They should start out with low stress walking on an even and flat surface, which is a good starting point.
Most cosmetic surgeons recommend waiting four to six weeks before starting a moderate exercise regimen. Bike riding, low impact aerobics, and incline walking are all excellent examples of light exercises.
Strenuous Exercise and Lifting
The patient will likely be out of most of their bandages at six to eight weeks, which may make exercise more comfortable. But strengthening exercises using weights can create a substantial strain on the incisions and sutures.
The healing period can become much longer if significant damage occurs. Therefore, it is a good idea for the patient to be very conservative letting their body guide them when engaging in vigorous activities if they want to maximize fitness benefits and avoid injuries.
Abdominal Exercises
Patients should also start abdominal exercise at six to eight weeks. Below are three effective exercises for toning the abdominal region:
Crunches
For maintaining a taut abdomen, crunches have long proven effective. Start by lying on your back and elevating your legs close to your chest. Now, cross your ankles and position your hands behind your head. Now gently contract your abdominal muscles while bringing your head closer to your knees.
Hold this position and count to ten. Then relax and return to the initial position. Consistently build up to repeating these steps 20 times each session.
Floor Leg Lifts
Start by lying down on your back with the arms at your sides. Now, lift your legs six to ten inches off the ground while tightening your abdominal muscles. Maintain this position for as long as you can and then lower your legs. Repeat the steps as many times as possible, but stop when you start feeling tired.
Post-operative exercises are a crucial part of a healthy recovery process. It is vital to increase the level of difficulty slowly and discontinue the workout immediately if you experience any pain.
Every patient is different, and you should discuss your exercise regimen with your doctor to ensure that you start a safe and healthy workout regimen that is most appropriate for you.
Cosmetic surgeon Dr. Paul McCluskey receives patients from Atlanta, Buckhead, Georgia, and nearby areas for tummy tuck.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit:
Serving patients in and around Atlanta, Buckhead, Roswell, Marietta, Georgia and surrounding areas.