Many of our patients are busy Phoenix residents with little time to spend at a doctor’s office. So when they ask about an abdominoplasty (or tummy tuck) to tighten loose abdominal muscles and remove excess skin and fat, they’re also curious about recovery times. After all, you don’t want to be laid up in bed for a long time recovering from your abdominoplasty.

This is one of the abdominoplasty questions you might have, and our surgeons will be happy to answer it and any others at your consultation.

Every patient is unique, and so is every abdominoplasty. Still, you have a right to know what you can expect after your abdominoplasty. As a general rule, most of our patients can return to work within a few weeks of their procedure, provided your job doesn’t require intense physical exertion. At around the same time you should be able to return to light, non-strenuous exercise such as walking.

During this initial recovery time your stomach will be sore or tender and a bit swollen. This is perfectly normal and doesn’t indicate a larger problem.

At around six weeks after your abdominoplasty you will be able to resume most physical activities, including a more taxing exercise regimen. The soreness and tenderness will likely fade by this point.

You’ll see the full results from your abdominoplasty within about six months.

Your surgeon will have specific instructions for you to follow after your abdominoplasty. Doing so will make your recovery process shorter and more pleasant.

If you’re a Phoenix, Arizona resident considering an abdominoplasty, please contact Gawley Plastic Surgery today to arrange a consultation.