You can wear jeans after a tummy tuck, but you need to be aware of the different stages of healing. Immediately after surgery, you will have a drainage tube in your belly and may be given an elastic bandage to wrap around your waist. You will not be able to wear jeans or anything that is tight around your waist for at least a month. At six weeks post-op, you can start wearing loose-fitting clothing and try on jeans. However, if you are still experiencing swelling or scarring, it’s best to wait until these symptoms improve before putting on tight clothing.
It’s important to remember that even when you’re cleared by your doctor to wear jeans after surgery, it doesn’t mean that you can go back to wearing them day in and day out. If possible, limit how often you wear tight clothing for the first year following a tummy tuck procedure because this will reduce the risk of complications such as infection or blood clots forming near where stitches were placed during surgery.
Read on to learn more information on How Long After A Tummy Tuck Can You Wear Jeans, Frequently Asked Questions about Tummy Tuck Recovery and How Many Sizes Can You Lose With a Tummy Tuck
How Long After A Tummy Tuck Can You Wear Jeans
A tummy tuck, also known as an abdominoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure used to make the abdomen both smaller and firmer. It focuses on the removal of excess fat and skin around the stomach. In most cases, it can also restore weak muscles creating an abdominal profile that men and women often both desire. Tummy Tucks are common cosmetic procedures and below you will find tips for recovery and activities you can do after Tummy Tuck surgery.
Unfortunately, sometimes strict diets and exercise cant achieve the abdomen contour you desire. It is common for people to have normal body weight, but to still develop sagging or loose skin around the abdominal area, this is where a tummy tuck can help.
Benefits of tummy tuck surgery
Many people are satisfied with the final result of their tummy tuck due to the physical and cosmetic benefits. A tummy tuck provides a variety of advantages to the appropriate patient, including;
- Regaining their pre-pregnancy tummy
- Remove the loose fat and skin following significant weight loss
- Achieve a flatter, firmer stomach
- Provides more contoured mid-section
- Repair muscle separation
- And, easier to maintain weight loss
What to expect after your surgery?
The length of recovery from a tummy tuck can vary from person to person. Generally, it takes 3 months if not longer to feel completely recovered. Although the majority of the healing period is within the first couple of weeks, it is important to put off important plans, physical activities, and work stresses during recovery. Strenuous activities such as weight lifting, running, sports, motorbikes etc should be avoided for at least six weeks after surgery.
Below are some routine things you need to care for as you heal after your surgery:
- Compression garments;
- You will be given a compression garment to wear after surgery.
- This will reduce swelling and support the abdomen.
- It promotes healing and recovery.
- You should expect to wear this for between two weeks and two months depending on your healing progress and your surgeon instructions.
- Incision care;
- The incision wound is covered by a surgical dressing or bandage to keep it safe from the external environment.
- You will be instructed about what to do and when regarding wound care.
- You should keep your wound clean and remain gentle with it to avoid injury or bleeding.
- Any swelling, intense pain or discharge from the wound should be immediately reported to your surgeon.
- Drain care;
- A temporary tube MAY be placed in the surgical site under your skin following tummy tuck surgery.
- This is only used when required and will be removed once fluid stops accumulating.
- Antibiotics and painkillers;
- You will be given a prescription for both antibiotics and painkillers.
- These are to be taken orally to reduce the risk of postoperative infection as well as to help you manage your pain levels.
Some recovery tips following tummy tuck are:
- Take pain medication as directed
- Wear a compression garment
- Use ice packs to minimize pain and swelling
- Limit jerky and quick movements
- Move around the house to keep your circulation going. In other words, do not be too stationary.
- Drink lots of water
- Get adequate bed rest
- Don’t stay in one position too long
Activities following tummy tuck surgery:
An important question after tummy tuck is how soon can patients return to their daily activities after a tummy tuck? Below is the general activity guideline. The information supplied is general in nature and you should always confirm with your surgeon before undertaking any of the below, no matter what we of recovery you are in.
Exercise: Exercise is an important part of recovery following tummy tuck surgery. Follow the instructions given by your doctor. Exercise combined with healthy eating will maximize your tummy tuck result.
Week 1 and 2
- Wear a compression garment for four to six weeks after surgery. It maximizes tummy tuck results and reduces swelling.
- Walk for a short distance while maintaining a flexed posture. Your abdominal muscle and fascia will be protected from being pulled, by walking flexed.
- You should be able to return to your job at the end of two weeks, as long as your job is not physically demanding.
Week 3 and 4
- You can resume light exercises like walking and recumbent cycling.
- Avoid strenuous exercise.
- Do not do exercises that target the abdominal muscles. This includes sits ups and weight lifting.
- Avoid jarring steps, work in a continuous motion.
Before resuming exercise always confirm with your surgeon as everyone’s recovery differs.
Week’s 4 to 6
- You can start a normal exercise routine at a low level.
- Exercises including;
- low-impact aerobics
- water aerobics
- long walks
- and very low weight lifting for arms and legs can be done.
- Ease your way back into things.
It is important to take it slow and pay attention to any warning signs such as pain or discomfort.
Weeks 6 to 8
- Generally, you will receive the all-clear for most types of aerobic activity at this point.
- Running outside or on a treadmill can be done.
- Moderate swimming can be done at around 8 weeks.
- Body strengthening exercise including heavy lifting can be done without putting too much strain on the abdominal wall.
- Remember, you won’t be able to start training where you were before surgery you need to build back up slowly.
After week 8
- Most lifestyle and exercise activities can resume with the exception of martial arts, boxing, Cross Fit, F45 and anything on a similar level. You need to wait until the three-month mark before you resume this kind of activity.
Driving after Tummy Tuck
You will need to take some time off following your tummy tuck surgery. You should not rush to get behind the wheel after surgery. The healing time should be uneventful to get optimum results.
As tummy tuck recovery varies from person to person, there is no standard answer for how much time you need to avoid driving after tummy tuck surgery. Therefore, it’s best to use your body as a guide and only go short distances to start with. Your surgeon will advise you.
Safety reasons to avoid driving after tummy tuck surgery;
- After surgery, you will not be able to drive due to anaesthesia. This is because anaesthesia can cause tiredness and confusion.
- You will not be able to operate a car or any machinery after waking up from anaesthesia for a couple of days.
- Furthermore, surgery can cause pain and exhaustion. On average, anaesthesia drugs remain in your body for up to 24 hours before leaving your system.
- You cannot drive yourself home after surgery, you will need a family member or friend to take you home and stay with you for a couple of days.
- After surgery, your body movement will be tender. Even simple things like turning your body to see a blind spot, opening the car door can be harder and painful along with delayed reaction times.
- Turning the wheel can be difficult as it requires core strength.
- For the above reasons it is not safe to drive until you are recovered and truly feel ready.
How to know when you are ready to drive?
Driving after tummy tuck surgery does not have a specific timeline and completely depends upon your recovery and pain levels. You should assess yourself in the car before you start to drive again. For example:
- Can you sit comfortably in a car?
- Can you open the door without difficulties?
- Is there any rubbing or pressure when you put on a seatbelt?
- Can you turn the wheel comfortably?
- Can you make an emergency stop to make a sharp turn to avoid an accident?
It is also important to note that driving is not recommended using certain pain medications. If you feel ready to do all of these things, then you are ready to drive. Usually, you have to wait 2-3 weeks after surgery to start driving.
Swimming after Tummy Tuck
You need to make sure you’ve had enough time to recover before you start swimming again. Swimming can take place in most cases, at the 8-week mark. You need to have had an uneventful recovery.
- Swimming can increase the risk of infection if the incision site isn’t fully healed.
- This is due to the fact that swimming pools and other bodies of water can carry a lot of germs and bacteria. While skin protects them from entering into the body. Incisions that are not healed properly are vulnerable to infection.
- Swimming can cause splitting of the incision site if done too soon as your body stretches out during the activity which can, in turn, stretch your scar or re-open it.
- Help scar heals optimally. If scars are exposed to the sun, it will impair how they heal.
- Even after you get the green signal to swim, ensure adequate protection to your scar and apply waterproof sunscreen before taking a dip.
- Typically, we instruct patients to take a break of a minimum of 6 weeks but preferably 8 weeks before submerging any incision in the ocean or pool.
Sexual Intercourse after Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck procedure will involve stitching together the abdominal muscles so they appear firm and toned. Muscle tightening is combined with abdominal skin being sutured together, this is why you should avoid sexual activity right after a tummy tuck surgery. It is necessary to allow the abdomen to heal and the incision to close before placing stress on them. Irrespective of position, sex puts too much stress on your healing abdomen.
The extent of the procedure and how you will recover will both play roles in how soon you can engage in intimacy. A patient requiring minimal surgery may be able to have sex after two weeks. However, following tummy tuck surgery you should wait until at least four weeks as a standard guideline.
Always ask your surgeon if you’re unsure about anything.
Do follow your cosmetic surgeon’s instructions
After surgery, your surgeon will provide postoperative guidance to maximize your comfort and encourage recovery. Typical instructions might include:
- Taking pain medication and antibiotics at regular intervals.
- Wearing support compression garments for approximately six weeks.
- Wearing comfortable underwear, specifically, ones that don’t put pressure on your incision.
- No exercise, swimming or driving until they clear you.
It is important to remember that a tummy tuck takes time to produce a result. It can take months or even up to a year for your body to fully recover and adapt to its new improved figure. There will be scarring, however, this will fade over time as you heal. The incision scars are made as low as possible and hidden within underwear where possible.
Don’t overexert yourself after the Tummy Tuck procedure
Spend at least a few days relaxing at home after your tummy tuck. You can take a short walk after a few days and light exercise after a few weeks. The more you are active, the more prompt the recovery. Staying active will help to reduce swelling, minimize the risk of blood clots and make you feel better too.
Don’t be too hard on yourself
Tummy tuck recovery is a lengthy process and can take months. You will have both good and bad days. You should have realistic expectations as you are healing, follow the surgeon’s advice, and discuss any concerns you are dealing with.
Frequently Asked Questions about Tummy Tuck Recovery
How soon can you drive after a tummy tuck?
- You will need to take some time off following your tummy tuck surgery. You should not rush to get behind a wheel after surgery. The healing time should be uneventful to get optimum results. As tummy tuck recovery varies from person to person and, there is no standard answer for how much time you need to avoid driving after tummy tuck surgery. Usually, you have to wait a minimum of 2-3 weeks after surgery to start driving again.
What are the restrictions after a tummy tuck?
- Your initial recovery time requires at least 2-3 weeks and for a few days, you need to rest and have downtime. This is to reduce scarring and to avoid bruising and swelling. Some restrictions right after a tummy tuck include;
- No Heavy lifting at all during your recovery.
- Avoid strenuous physical activities, swimming and driving until your surgeon gives you the green light
- Stay home and get rest for 2-3 weeks.
What happens 2 weeks after a tummy tuck?
- At 2 weeks, there is still swelling in the treatment area, however, the pain, bruising, and feeling of tightness are starting to ease.
- The patient should continue to wear compression garments.
What are the do and don’ts after a tummy tuck?
- The do’s and don’ts after a tummy tuck are;
- Don’t be afraid to ask any questions regarding your recovery – no question is silly – not asking the questions is silly.
- Don’t smoke, drink alcohol or take recreational drugs as they interfere with the healing
- Don’t be inactive but DO be careful in your movements
- Do have realistic expectation your cosmetic goals
- Do follow your surgeon’s instructions
Can I bend over after tummy tuck?
- Patients are asked to try and walk as normal as is comfortable. If there is a slight hunch that’s ok as you will straighten up over time. We don’t encourage hunching all the time.
What happens if you don’t wear a compression garment after a tummy tuck?
- Compression garments will support your stomach while it is inflamed and assist in the recovery process.
- Compression clothing should be worn 23 hours a day and should only be removed for showering or washing the garment.
- If you don’t wear a compression garment as advised following tummy tuck you can risk splitting of sutures, seroma formation, haematoma formation, increased swelling and bruising, etc.
- COMPRESSION GARMENTS ARE NON-NEGOTIABLE.
When can I wear jeans after a tummy tuck?
- Most patients after tummy tuck surgery feel comfortable wearing jeans about 3-4 weeks after surgery. This gives time for the drains to be removed (if they were used), the incision to heal and some of the swelling to go down. Leggings are a great option over your garment initially or flowing dresses or tops. Read more about Drains vs No Drain Cosmetic Surgery Options.
What is the fastest way to recover from a tummy tuck?
- Some tips for fast recovery after a tummy tuck are:
- Eat foods high in vitamins and minerals (vegetables, fruit, protein source)
- Drink plenty of water after a tummy tuck.
- Limit the work hours as well as physical activity at work, for the first six weeks after surgery.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions
- Wear support compression garments for roughly six weeks.
- Stay away from junk food, alcohol, smoking, drugs. As they all hinder recovery
- Keep moving (as comfortable) to assist circulation.
How long does the tightness last after a tummy tuck?
- Although the tightness can feel alarming, it is quite normal to the healing process. The patient should expect this to last anywhere from six to twelve weeks following the tummy tuck procedure. However, it may take up to a year to regain normal sensation in the abdominal areas as the nerves may be affected. This can result in numbness or tingling that takes time to normalize and in rare cases, there is a chance some feeling may be lost on the skin.
Can I lay on my side after a tummy tuck?
- You should avoid laying on the side at least three weeks postoperatively, it is always best to get an idea from the surgeon about laying down and best positions for the recovery period.
Why are my thighs so swollen after a tummy tuck?
- It is normal for the swelling of a tummy tuck to be present in the thighs several months after surgery as swelling migrates toward the thigh. At three weeks, gravity pulls swelling toward your thighs and ankles and from there it will resolve.
How do you get out of bed after a tummy tuck?
- Patients need to be careful not to stretch the skin of the lower abdomen when getting out of bed.
- The steps to get out of bed after a tummy tuck are;
- Roll on to your side
- Maintain flexion at the hips
- Use your hand to push yourself in a seated position
- Rock forward and use your leg to help you stand.
How Many Sizes Can You Lose With a Tummy Tuck?
This tummy tummy tuck cost is highly successful and does result in the removal of roughly 10 pounds of fat as well as inches from your abdominal area. You will be able to visibly see your weight drop as your body becomes slimmer and more streamlined. In most cases, you will also begin to notice that you are able to wear smaller clothing.
How many sizes you go down depends on where you started and how your body changes after the procedure. Most women lose between 2 and 3 pants sizes after a tuck, but there are patients who lose even more. If you had a lot of loose skin before the procedure, for example, you could go down 4 more pants sizes.
Other Results
Flatter Stomach
In addition to losing pounds and pants sizes, another physical benefit of this procedure is that your abdomen will become flat and harder than it was before. Once those muscles have been tightened and the skin pulled back into place, you will no longer see the sagging you may have had previously. The line of your body will become smoother with fewer bumps or bulges
Most women find that their clothing fits better after the tuck, and they feel more comfortable in tight clothing or an outfit that shows the stomach. You may be comfortable wearing a bikini or a cropped shirt after the procedure even if you haven’t worn those styles in many years.
Better Bladder Control
Some women experience a lack of bladder control after pregnancy or simply because of aging. When the abdominal muscles are stretched, as they are during pregnancy, they can become weak. The tissue that supports other body parts in the area can become weak as well. This includes the tissues around the pelvic floor and vaginal region.
Tightening the muscles and tissue around this area helps to control a condition called stress urinary incontinence. That’s when your bladder leaks from a small amount of pressure caused by activities like exercise, coughing, sneezing, or even laughing. When the area around your bladder and pelvic floor are frightened, you get more control over the activity there.
Better Posture
The abdominal muscles are partially responsible for helping you stand up straight and tall. Sometimes weak muscles in the stomach can cause the back to bend forward. You may be regularly walking with a slight hunch to your posture and not even know it. Once those muscles are strong again, you will have the support to hold yourself more upright. This can even make you appear taller.
Higher Self-Esteem
The results in your appearance after this procedure may lead to a boost in confidence and self-image, especially if you have been feeling self-conscious about your weak abdominal muscles or the excess skin on your stomach. When you look amazing in tight clothing and are standing straighter and taller, you are naturally going to feel better about yourself.
Other people will not know that you’ve had the procedure unless you tell them. They may just think you’ve lost some weight. But they will notice your confidence and the change in the way you carry yourself. They will see that you are happy with yourself which will help lead to happiness in other parts of your life. Some people lose even more weight after the procedure because they are motivated to get healthier.
What Should I Wear After Abdominoplasty
Immediately after your tummy tuck, your abdomen will be wrapped in bandages. You may also need to wear a prescription-strength compression garment to mitigate swelling. On the way to your procedure, wear loose, baggy clothing.
Rather than your cutest pair of jeans, we recommend a loose pair of drawstring pants. You should also wear a button-up or zip-up shirt that is large enough to wear easily over the bandages and possible compression garment. We strongly recommend against wearing a top that requires you to reach over your head.
First Week Post-Op
For the first week post-op, you should continue to wear loose-fitting, soft, comfy clothes. Some women prefer to wear a soft, loose dress rather than a baggy shirt and sweatpants. Whether you prefer pants or a dress, we strongly recommend investing in a soft bathrobe.
Depending on the extent of your procedure, you may need to wear a medical-grade compression garment or regular Spanx garment for up to six weeks or longer. This should be worn at all times except for when you bathe.
Six to Eight Weeks Post-Op
After your post-tummy tuck recovery, your wardrobe will fit differently. Depending on how much fat and excess skin was removed, you may find that you go down a pants size or two. Unless you already have a sewing machine, you may find it is easier and more affordable to go on a shopping spree than tailor your own clothes down to two sizes.
If you didn’t have much fat and excess skin removed, your clothes might not go down a size. However, your waist will look flatter and leaner without a soft tummy hanging out over your pants. You can still go on a shopping spree, too! Find a bold belt in your favorite color to accentuate your new tight, trim tummy. And don’t forget a little black wrap dress to highlight your new hourglass figure.