What's the recovery like for Tummy Tuck?
Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.
Recovery timeline
Significant soreness, swelling, and tightness. Drains in place (if used). Walk bent forward slightly. Pain is managed with prescribed medication.
Pain reduces significantly. Drains typically removed at day 5–7 if output is low. Begin gentle short walks to prevent blood clots.
Most patients return to desk work. Compression garment worn 24/7. Swelling peaks then begins to reduce. Posture gradually improves.
Activity increases. Light daily activities comfortable. Compression garment transitions to daytime only.
Cleared for full exercise and normal activity. Scar matures. Swelling continues to reduce.
Final results visible. Scar continues to fade and soften for 12 to 18 months.
Recovery tips
- Walk bent forward for the first few days — do not force yourself fully upright before your body is ready
- Wear your compression garment as directed — it reduces swelling and supports healing
- Take short walks from day 1 to promote circulation and prevent DVT
- Sleep in a reclined position (recliner chair or wedge pillow) for the first 1 to 2 weeks
- Stay well hydrated and eat a high-protein diet to support healing
- Arnica supplements and bromelain can help reduce swelling and bruising
What to avoid
- Strenuous exercise, lifting over 10 lbs, or core work for 6 to 8 weeks
- Swimming or submerging incisions until fully healed (usually 4 to 6 weeks)
- Aspirin and NSAIDs for 2 weeks post-op (unless prescribed by surgeon)
- Constipation — use stool softeners as prescribed to avoid straining
- Long car or plane rides in the first 2 weeks (DVT risk)
When to call your provider
- Sudden increase in pain, redness, or warmth at the incision — possible infection or seroma
- Fever above 101.5°F
- One leg becomes red, swollen, or painful — possible DVT
- Drain output suddenly increases or becomes cloudy
- Shortness of breath or chest pain — call 911 immediately
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