Body Surgery

When Can I Plank after Abdominoplasty – Tummy Tuck Surgery

Timing Your Return to Planking Post-Abdominoplasty

If you’re considering a tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, it’s essential to know what the surgery involves and the importance of the recovery period. This procedure helps to flatten your abdomen by removing excess fat and skin and tightening muscles in your abdominal wall. It’s a major surgery, so taking care of yourself afterwards is key to a successful outcome.

Understanding the do’s and don’ts after your operation can’t be overstated. Your body needs time to heal, and that means giving it a break from certain activities, especially strenuous exercises like planking. You’ll need to follow a set of instructions to help your body recover without any complications.

Melbourne Plastic Surgeon Dr Carmen Munteanu MD will provide you with detailed postoperative guidelines following your Abdominoplasty procedure, ensuring you are thoroughly prepared for a smooth recovery.

Take our Plastic Surgery Quiz to find out if you’d be a good candidate and if you are ready for cosmetic surgery.

What Is Abdominoplasty

Abdominoplasty, or what you might commonly hear referred to as a tummy tuck, is a type of surgery that aims to give you a flatter stomach. The procedure involves removing extra skin and fat from your abdomen and tightening your abdominal muscles. It’s a popular surgery for those who have gone through pregnancy, significant weight loss, or simply have areas that don’t respond well to diet and exercise.

There are a few different tummy tuck – abdominoplasty procedures, each tailored to meet different needs. The full tummy tuck – abdominoplasty is the most comprehensive, addressing the entire abdominal area. There’s also the mini tummy tuck – abdominoplasty, which focuses on the area below the belly button, and is less extensive. For those who need more significant reshaping, an extended abdominoplasty might be the way to go, as it extends around the hips to improve the waistline as well.

The Recovery Timeline for Abdominoplasty

Recovering from abdominoplasty is a gradual process, and knowing what to expect at each stage can help you prepare for a smooth and steady healing journey.

The first 24 hours post-surgery

Rest is your top priority; your body has been through a lot and needs time to start the healing process
You’ll likely feel groggy from the anaesthesia, so have someone there to help you with anything you need
Pain management will be important. Dr Carmen will give you pain relief options, and it’s essential to use them as directed
Expect to have some swelling and drainage tubes in place to remove excess fluid from the surgical site
You’ll be encouraged to get up and walk around a little – this helps circulation and can aid in the recovery process

The first week: What to expect

Swelling and bruising are normal, and they’ll be most noticeable during the first week
You’ll need to wear a compression garment to support your abdomen as it heals
It’s important to continue avoiding strenuous activity; gentle walks are beneficial, but anything more can be harmful
You’ll see Dr Carmen for follow-up appointments to check on your progress and to remove any drains when they’re no longer needed
Eating well, staying hydrated, and getting plenty of sleep are key to helping your body mend

Milestones in the recovery process

Each week, you should see improvements and lessening discomfort
By the second week, you might feel up to doing light tasks around the house
Around the four to six-week mark, you’ll typically be able to return to work, provided your job isn’t physically demanding
Heavy lifting and vigorous exercise should still be off-limits until Dr Carmen gives you the all-clear – this can vary but is usually around the six to eight-week mark
Full healing can take several months, and it’s during this time that you’ll start to see the final shape of your abdomen as swelling subsides and the tissues settle

Resuming Physical Activity

After a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty, getting back to your usual physical activities isn’t something you can rush. Your body will need time to heal properly, and it’s important to follow a gradual approach to ensure the best results and minimise the risk of complications.

General guidelines for resuming physical activity

Start slow. In the beginning, even standing up straight can feel like a workout. Listen to your body and don’t push it
Gradually increase activity. Begin with short walks around your home, then extend these walks outside as you feel more comfortable
Wait for the go-ahead from your surgeon before you return to any form of exercise beyond walking. This is usually after six to eight weeks
When you do start exercising, begin with low-impact activities like cycling on a stationary bike or gentle water aerobics

The role of physical therapy in recovery

A physical therapist can tailor a program to your specific needs, helping to strengthen your core and improve flexibility without straining your surgical site
They’ll show you exercises that are safe to do, ensuring you don’t harm your healing tissues
Physical therapy can also help to reduce swelling and improve posture as your body heals

Activities to avoid and why

Avoid heavy lifting and high-impact activities such as running, jumping, or anything that causes a jarring motion to your body for at least six to eight weeks
Steer clear of abdominal exercises like crunches or planks until Dr Carmen says it’s safe. These can put too much stress on your healing muscles
Be cautious with activities that involve stretching or pulling on your abdomen. Overstretching can lead to complications with your incision site and affect the outcome of your surgery

Always remember, the timeline for resuming activities can vary from person to person. Your plastic surgeon knows your situation best and will give you advice based on how well you’re healing.

Plank after Abdominoplasty

Plank is a popular exercise for strengthening the core, which includes your abdominal muscles. It’s a simple yet effective workout where you hold your body in a position similar to a push-up for a certain period.

Planking works by activating the deep inner core muscles. These muscles are crucial for providing support to your entire body, particularly your spine
Regular planking can help improve your posture, balance, and overall stability
It’s a versatile exercise that doesn’t require any equipment and can be modified to suit different fitness levels

The impact of planking on abdominal muscles

When you plank, you engage the entire set of core muscles, not just the ones on the surface. This leads to a stronger, tighter abdomen
It also helps to build endurance in both the abs and back, supporting a healthy back and reducing the risk of back pain
Since it’s an isometric exercise, it helps in toning your belly without the repetitive motion that can cause strain in other exercises

Risks of planking too soon after surgery

Your abdominal muscles are significantly weakened immediately following a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty. Attempting to plank too soon can put undue stress on the surgical repair
There’s a risk of tearing the muscle repair or even causing a hernia if the internal sutures are not fully healed
Planking before your body is ready can lead to increased swelling and delay your overall recovery time

It’s important to wait until Dr Carmen gives you the clear before attempting to plank. She will assess your healing and let you know when your body can handle the stress of this exercise. When you do start planking, begin with short intervals and gradually increase your time as your strength improves.

When to Safely Resume Planking after Abdominoplasty

Knowing when to safely reintroduce exercises like planking into your routine after a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty is key to ensuring your recovery stays on track.

Typical timelines for reintroducing exercises

Generally, light walking is encouraged immediately after surgery to promote circulation
For more strenuous exercises, including planking, Dr Carmen advises waiting until at least six to eight weeks post-operation
The exact time will depend on your individual healing process and the complexity of your surgery

Signs your body is ready to plank

You should experience no pain when engaging in light activities or when touching your abdomen
Swelling should have significantly reduced, and any incisions should be well on their way to being fully healed
You should be able to perform daily activities comfortably without feeling any strain on your abdominal area

How to reintroduce planking safely

Start with modified planks, such as planking on your knees or by using an elevated surface to reduce the strain on your abdomen
Keep initial planking sessions short, no more than a few seconds to a minute, and gradually increase the duration as you gain strength
Pay close attention to your body’s response. If you feel any pain or discomfort, stop immediately and consult with Dr Carmen
Consider working with a fitness professional who understands your condition and can provide guidance on proper form and progression

Download Dr Carmen’s Guide to Tummy Tuck Surgery – Abdominoplasty

Alternative Exercises to Consider

While you’re healing from a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty, it’s important to keep active without putting your recovery at risk. There are several exercises you can do to stay fit and support your body’s healing process.

Safe exercises during the early recovery phase

Walking is your best bet. Start with short, gentle walks and gradually increase the distance as you feel more comfortable
Leg lifts while lying on your back can help maintain leg strength without straining your core
Arm exercises, like curls with light weights, can keep your upper body active without involving your abdomen

Core strengthening exercises that don’t strain the surgery site

Pelvic tilts can gently engage your core. Lie on your back with your knees bent and gently rock your pelvis upwards
Deep breathing exercises can also help. They engage your diaphragm and deep abdominal muscles without putting pressure on the surgery area
Once Dr Carmen approves, you can try exercises like the bridge, which involves lifting your hips while lying on your back, to strengthen your lower back and buttocks

How to maintain fitness without compromising recovery

Focus on consistency rather than intensity. Regular, low-impact activity is better than sporadic, intense workouts
Listen to your body. If you feel pain or discomfort, take it as a sign to slow down or stop
Balance activity with rest. Your body heals best when it’s well-rested, so make sure you’re getting plenty of sleep

FAQs about Exercising after Abdominoplasty

When can I start exercising again after my tummy tuck – abdominoplasty?

You can usually start with light walking immediately after surgery to promote circulation. However, for more strenuous exercises, especially those targeting the core, you’ll need to wait until your surgeon gives you the all-clear. This is typically around the six to eight-week mark, depending on how well you’re healing.

What exercises are safe to do in the first few weeks after my surgery?

In the initial weeks post-surgery, focus on gentle walking and light leg movements to keep blood flowing. Avoid any activity that puts pressure on your abdomen or causes pain. Always follow your plastic surgeon’s specific advice on which exercises are safe for you to perform.

Why do I have to wait to do abdominal exercises after a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty?

Abdominal exercises can put a strain on the muscles and incisions that are still healing. Engaging in abdominal exercises too soon can lead to complications such as muscle damage, hernias, and the separation of the muscle repair. It’s essential to give your body the time it needs to heal properly before resuming these types of exercises.

How will I know if I’m doing too much too soon after my abdominoplasty?

Your body will give you signals. If you’re experiencing pain beyond general discomfort, swelling, or any unusual symptoms in your abdominal area, these are signs you may be pushing too hard. Always err on the side of caution and consult with Dr Carmen if you’re unsure about your activities.

Can physical therapy help me recover faster after a tummy tuck – abdominoplasty?

Physical therapy can be very beneficial after abdominoplasty. A physical therapist can guide you through safe, effective exercises to strengthen your core without compromising your surgical results. They can also help ensure you’re performing exercises correctly to avoid injury. However, it doesn’t necessarily speed up the healing process, as this is something that your body will do at its own pace.

Medical References about Abdominoplasty

Tummy Tuck | Patient Guide – The American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) – Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons
What You Need to Know About Your Abdominoplasty Recovery – ASPS
What To Know About Recovery from An Abdominoplasty – WebMD
Tummy Tuck – Mayo Clinic