Recovery After Tummy Tuck Surgery

Recovery from a full tummy tuck or panniculectomy takes a long time. You will be out of work for as much as 3 to 4 weeks, depending on what kind of work you do for a living. Someone who works a desk job can probably return to work before someone whose work is more physical. If you are having a panniculectomy in conjunction with other abdominal surgery, you may be out of work for 6 weeks.

In the first week after surgery, you will have pain and swelling on your abdomen. Your surgeon will prescribe some pain relievers for you and possibly some antibiotics.

You may have difficulty straightening up completely and in getting around. However, you should walk around for a few minutes several times a day to prevent blood clots from forming in your legs, which can be life-threatening. Getting up and moving around gently will also help relieve the swelling.

After the surgery, you may need to wear an abdominal support day and night for several weeks. This is a wide band made of strong elastic material that will help support your abdomen. Sutures or surgical staples will be removed 5 to 10 days after your surgery. If you have surgical drains, these will be removed in a few days.

Your surgeon will tell you when you can return to your normal activities. Usually, you will be told not to exercise or participate in sports for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, depending on the extent of your procedure. Ask your surgeon when it will be safe for you to do abdominal exercises such as sit-ups and crunches.

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