Like any surgery, it isn't uncommon for your surgeon to restrict your level of physical activity after a tummy tuck. Most people come away from this procedure fitted with tubes, dressings and compression bandages to drain excess fluids and minimize swelling. Obviously, this can make moving around a bit difficult. You also have a sizeable incision along the base of your abdomen, which can actually open from too much activity. Physical activities can be done after a tummy tuck, but the more intense pursuits are typically reserved for later in your recovery.
Walking
Walking is the most common form of moderately intense exercise recommended after a tummy tuck. Your surgeon will likely encourage you to take a walk the day following your procedure. It'll only be a short walk, but the activity helps promote blood flow to aid in healing and prevent blood clots. After seven to 10 days, however, you'll likely be able to take longer walks and increase the pace of your stride, but this can vary from person to person.
Biking
Besides walking, your surgeon might allow you to start cycling roughly seven to 10 days after your tummy tuck. But it's best to use a stationary bike, because you have less chance of sudden movements that may pop your sutures and open the incision site. You'll likely need to keep the resistance low until the area better heals, but the increased activity from cycling has a similar affect on blood circulation as walking, which can aid in healing and prevent blood clots.
Swimming
It can take about a month before you can start swimming again, but this is another moderately intense exercise you can often take part in after a tummy tuck. It's best to avoid any stroke that uses overhead movements until your doctor gives you the OK. Stretching or twisting can sometimes loosen the sutures and open an area along the incision site.
Other Pursuits
Six to eight weeks after your tummy tuck, you can typically begin unrestricted physical activities, such as jogging, kayaking, cross-country skiing and other more strenuous pursuits. The movements required to engage in any one of these activities can take a toll on your incision site. After this amount of time, the tissue damaged during the procedure has usually reached its maximum strength, meaning the chances of injury are almost none. Because no two people are alike, you should still talk to your surgeon before engaging in more strenuous exercises.
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