Tummy Tuck Recovery Guide
Complete week-by-week recovery timeline and expert tips for optimal healing after your tummy tuck surgery in New Zealand.
Recovery Timeline
1
Week 1
Initial Recovery
Rest and healing begin
What You Can Do
- Complete bed rest for first 2-3 days
- Walk short distances every 2 hours to prevent blood clots
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed
- Wear compression garment 24/7
- Keep incision areas clean and dry
- No lifting over 5kg (11 lbs)
Restrictions
- No driving
- No work (unless desk job from home)
- No bending or twisting
- No submerging in water (showers only)
2
Week 2-3
Gradual Mobility
Increased movement and activity
What You Can Do
- Return to light desk work
- Short walks (10-15 minutes)
- Gentle stretching as approved by surgeon
- Begin scar massage with approved creams
- Attend follow-up appointment
Restrictions
- No heavy lifting (still under 5kg)
- No strenuous exercise
- No swimming or bathing
- Continue wearing compression garment
3
Week 4-6
Returning to Normal
Gradual return to regular activities
What You Can Do
- Return to full work schedule
- Light household activities
- Driving (if comfortable and not taking pain meds)
- Light exercise (walking, gentle yoga)
- May reduce compression garment wear to 12 hours/day
Restrictions
- No heavy lifting over 10kg (22 lbs)
- No high-impact exercise
- No swimming until cleared by surgeon
4
Week 6-8
Increased Activity
Return to most normal activities
What You Can Do
- Swimming and bathing allowed (if cleared)
- Moderate exercise (gym, jogging)
- Lifting up to 15kg (33 lbs)
- More normal clothing options
- Scar treatment and massage
Restrictions
- Avoid very strenuous activities
- Continue monitoring incision sites
- Follow surgeon's specific guidelines
5
Month 3-6
Full Recovery
Complete healing and final results
What You Can Do
- All normal activities resumed
- Full exercise routine including abs
- Normal lifting and physical activity
- Final result assessment
- Scar maturation continues
Restrictions
- Monitor for any unusual changes
- Continue scar care routine
- Maintain stable weight
Essential Recovery Tips
What to Wear
- Loose, front-opening clothing for first 2 weeks
- Compression garment as prescribed (usually 6-8 weeks)
- Comfortable, slip-on shoes
- Avoid tight waistbands for 6-8 weeks
Nutrition for Healing
- High-protein foods to support tissue repair
- Plenty of water for hydration
- Vitamin C rich foods for collagen production
- Avoid alcohol and smoking for optimal healing
Exercise & Movement
- Walking is encouraged from day 1 (short distances)
- No abdominal exercises for 6-8 weeks
- Gradual return to cardio after 4-6 weeks
- Full gym routine after 3 months
Sleep & Rest
- Sleep in recliner or propped up for first week
- Use pillows to support your body
- Expect fatigue for first 2-3 weeks
- Rest when your body tells you to
When to Contact Your Surgeon
Contact your surgeon immediately if you experience:
- Severe pain not controlled by medication
- Signs of infection (fever, excessive swelling, pus)
- Excessive bleeding or unusual discharge
- Difficulty breathing or chest pain
- Separation of incision edges
- Leg pain or swelling (blood clot signs)
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