A tummy tuck can smooth and firm the abdomen by tightening muscles and removing loose skin.
Dr. John J. Corey, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, offers this procedure at Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale. One of the most common questions he receives from patients is about how and when they can start exercising and rebuilding core strength.
Strengthening your abdominal muscles is critical to maintaining your results. It’s also essential to ease back into exercise with intention and care.
When Can You Start Core Strengthening?
After a tummy tuck, your body needs time to heal before you can engage in core workouts. Dr. Corey’s exercise guidelines recommend avoiding strenuous activity for at least six to seven weeks.
Light walking is encouraged early on to promote circulation. However, any movements that strain the abdominal muscles should wait until Dr. Corey approves. Starting too soon can lead to complications like muscle strain and excessive swelling, and in the worst-casse scenario, broken stitiches and a return of a tummy bulge.
Safe Core Exercises After a Tummy Tuck
Once cleared by Dr. Corey, you can introduce gentle core exercises to restore strength without stressing the muscles. Effective options include:
- Pelvic Tilts: Lie down on your back with bent knees. Flatten your lower back as you tilt your pelvis upward slightly. This will activate your deep abdominal muscles with minimal strain.
- Glute Bridges: Lie on your back with your feet hip-width apart. Press your feet into the floor while lifting your hips and engaging your core. This targets the lower back and abdominal muscles.
- Modified Planks: Start with short holds on your knees or elbows, rather than your toes and hands. As you get stronger, you can progress to full planks.
Avoid crunches, sit-ups, and the abdominal weight machine at the gym. Dr. Corey (and now some trainers) feel these are counter-productive and can actually serve to weaken the abdominal fascia and even lead to a belly button hernia. Dr. Corey’s advice is to continue to do core-strengthening exercises, but avoid the “crunches”!
Signs You’re Overdoing It
Your body will signal if you’re pushing too hard. Stop exercising and consult Dr. Corey if you experience:
- Sharp pain or discomfort in the abdomen
- Increased swelling or tightness
- Difficulty standing upright after working out
Start Working Toward a Stronger Core Today
Regaining core strength after a tummy tuck takes time, but with patience and the right approach, you can safely rebuild your abdominal muscles.
Schedule a consultation with Aesthetic Plastic Surgery in Scottsdale for personalized guidance on the tummy tuck procedure and recovery period. Call us at (480) 767-7700.