It is common for patients to negotiate an appropriate level of activity after undergoing tummy tuck, breast augmentation, liposuction, or any other combination of surgeries that make up a Dallas mommy makeover. The thought is, if they can convince me that they need less time to recover than other patients, somehow the surgery will be lessened in magnitude, or that they will be able to recover more quickly after the procedure.
Childbirth takes a dramatic toll on the female body. To reverse those changes with a mommy makeover, significant surgery is involved. With a Dallas tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), in addition to removing skin, extensive sculpting of the waist and upper abdomen is performed with liposuction, and the muscles of the abdominal wall are significantly tightened. Undue straining for a period of time after surgery can disrupt the sutures, and lead to a less then desirable postoperative result. In addition, straining after surgery can cause problems with wound disruption and bleeding, not to mention prolonged swelling in the abdomen, breasts, and lower extremities.
I usually recommend that my patients take 1-2 weeks off of work after surgery. Some patients will take less time and others more, depending on the level of physical exertion required at their work place. I also strongly advise my patients to refrain from any vigorous exercise for 6-8 weeks after surgery. Although it is important to walk almost immediately after surgery to prevent blood clots and respiratory problems, too much activity can lead to infection, bleeding, and wound healing problems.
Ultimately, to get the best result after mommy makeover, a patient has to allow herself the appropriate amount of time to recover. Should you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Jejurikar’s office at 214-827-2814.