A tummy tuck, or abdominoplasty, can be very helpful for women with abdominal muscles and skin that can’t regain their elasticity after pregnancy. But because those patients are busy moms, many worry about how long the recovery will take afterward.

Because a tummy tuck is one of our more involved procedures, recovery time is a bit longer than a more basic surgery. Your muscles need time to heal and re-form, and you simply need time to rest and recuperate. That’s why in the first few days after your tummy tuck, you’ll be spending most of your time in bed, with pain medication to help ensure you are comfortable.

But the good news — for busy moms as well as other typical patients, such as people who have lost weight and have excess skin around their belly — is that you can begin resuming some of your regular activities after 7 to 10 days.

Of course, vigorous exercise, heavy lifting, and other intense physical activities need to be avoided for a longer period, usually at least four weeks.

And if you see swelling and bruising, don’t worry — that’s just fine. In fact, it’s a positive sign, because your body is healing. The swelling should start to decrease quickly starting a couple of days after your surgery.

Board-certified Newport Beach plastic surgeon Dr. Tenley Lawton has performed many successful tummy tucks, and both she and her team of experienced professionals will be with you every step of the way during your recovery. Before you know it, you’ll be back to normal and moving around with renewed vigor and confidence.

Get in touch with us today for a consultation with Dr. Lawton and to find out if a tummy tuck is right for you.