How Long Until You See Your Tummy Tuck Results?
Updated July 2018
A tummy tuck can be a greatly anticipated procedure, so patients are understandably eager to see their final results. But whether considering a tummy tuck after pregnancy or to tone up after weight loss, abdominoplasty is a major surgery, and your body needs time to recover.
A tummy tuck typically involves several steps:
- Removal of excess skin
- Tightening the skin
- Removing fatty deposits
- Tightening the abdominal muscles
Some tummy tucks are more extensive than others, and a variety of factors contribute to each person’s healing process. It’s helpful to separate recovery into stages.
First Healing Phase
[pullquote]Recognize your limits during each phase of healing so you’ll enjoy the best results for years to come.[/pullquote]
Immediately following a tummy tuck, loose, sagging skin should be gone, although some swelling will continue and gradually decrease over a period of several weeks. Most people can return to desk jobs within two weeks. For more physically demanding jobs, additional recovery time is necessary before returning to work.
During this stage, vigorous physical activity is avoided. Patients are advised to take it easy during the first couple weeks following a tummy tuck. After two weeks, non-impact cardio, such as walking, is encouraged. Between six to eight weeks, most individuals can resume all physical activities, though easing back into a fitness routine is recommended.
Second Healing Phase
The second phase of healing typically lasts three to four months. By the fourth month, the remainder of swelling should be gone. Most people are able to see their final shape at this stage, and are able to fit into smaller sized clothing.
Final Healing Phase
The final healing phase can take up to a year or more. Incisions will continue to heal and fade during this time. Practicing good scar care, including protecting the incisions from sun exposure and application of topical creams, can help to maximize your tummy tuck results.