When can i go back to work after tummy tuck?
Back to work one week after Tummy Tuck reasonable for desk job if no complications of surgery
Recovery time for tummy tuck varies with the procedure. If you have a desk job with no lifting and if you have had a minor tummy tuck or mini tummy tuck you may well be able to return to work after a week.
This assumes no complications and that your wound is healing well with no drains in place. If you have a major or full tummy tuck with muscle repair of a Diastasis Recti you may well need 10 days to two weeks for recovery.
Of course this will depend on your surgeons recommendations for your unique situation (Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS, Boston Plastic Surgeon)
Recovery after a tummy tuck
There are several factors that determine when you can go back to work after a tummy tuck. Some of the most important ones are how fit you are, how extensive your tummy tuck was, how physical your job is and your pain tolerance.
In general 10-14 days is a good estimate of back to work time for a desk job, after a small tummy tuck in a fit person. Although the pressures to return to work may be significant – best not to overdo it by going back too early. (Michael Weinberg, MD, Toronto Plastic Surgeon)
Returning to work after a tummy tuck
It is possible to return to work one week after a tummy tuck, provided that all is perfect, and you do not need to do any heavy lifting. You will probably feel winded and tired a bit more than usual after surgery. (Steven Wallach, MD, Manhattan Plastic Surgeon)
Return to work 1 week after tummy tuck
It is possible to return to work after one week after an abdominoplasty, just keep in mind you won’t be at 100% of your preoperative energy level. You will tire much more easily. Plan ahead. You may not be able to stand completely upright. You will still be sore. Not pain, more like you really overdid it at the gym 2 days ago. Ibuprofen will be your friend. You may have a drain or two.
Wear creative clothing and make sure they don’t get caught. If possible, try to return to 1/2 days the first day or two, to test things out. (William A. Wallace, MD, FACS, Jacksonville Plastic Surgeon)
It’s possible to go back to a desk job 1 week after a tummy tuck but don’t count on it.
Most patients a week after a tummy tuck are up and about. They can get in and out of a car and walk up and down stairs. But not all. One has to factor in the variables associated with conalescence and make a prediction. (Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD, Atlanta Plastic Surgeon)
Working just one week after tummy tuck
With courage and motivation, and the right kind of job, working may be possible one week after tummy tuck. If your job is physical in the least, or you must do the driving, two weeks is a better solution. The amount of discomfort will depend on the muscle laxity and tightening which can be different for some. Try planning two weeks off, and then go back a week early if you can. This can help you avoid frustration or discouragement. (Peter E. Johnson, MD, Chicago Plastic Surgeon)
Tummy tuck downtime
Most people are able to return to work by 10-14 days after a tummy tuck. One week would be calling it close as you may still have some discomfort. Also if you overdo it too soon it could lead to healing complications such as delayed healing of the incision with worse scarring, fluid collection or infection. Despite returning to work at 10-14 days, full recovery and return to all activities takes 4-6 weeks. (David J. Levens, MD, Coral Springs Plastic Surgeon)
Recovery & return to work after Tummy Tuck
Recovery after tummy tuck depends on a lot of factors. Generally, I recommend taking off 10 to 14 days. However, you must consider the following factors before taking time off.
First, the extent of the surgery. There is mini tummy tuck to full-tummy tuck. Second, the occupation. People with desk job are able to return to work sooner. Third, Pain and discomfort. Since pain and discomfort is a subjective thing, people differ on the amount of discomfort experienced after tummy tuck. Fourth, healing.
If you heal well, you may be able to return sooner. If you have any kind of healing issue, you may need the extra time. Basically, make this decision with your Plastic surgeon.
He/she should guide you of the amount of time to take off. Take enough time off to take care of yourself. You have the rest of your life to enjoy your new look. (Stanley Okoro, MD, Atlanta Plastic Surgeon)