You are probably used to hearing that sitting and standing up straight are good for your posture, so it might come as a surprise to hear from your plastic surgeon that hunching forward when you stand and walk after your tummy tuck is actually a good thing.
Learn why hunching over during tummy tuck recovery is beneficial and how to start gradually transitioning to a straighter stance.
Hunching Over Is an Important Part of Tummy Tuck Recovery
During your tummy tuck, your plastic surgeon tightened the skin and possibly also muscle tissue in your abdominal area. Because of this, it can be uncomfortable or even painful to stand straight up directly after your abdominoplasty. To avoid complications and help you heal more comfortably, your plastic surgeon will recommend that you walk hunched over for the first week or two of your tummy tuck recovery.
How to Gradually Begin to Straighten Up After a Tummy Tuck
Fortunately, you won’t have to hunch forward for too long. After the first 1 to 2 weeks, you should be able to gradually return to a straighter, taller stance when sitting, standing, or walking. Keep these tips in mind to help your body easily make this transition:
- Gradually begin to straighten over time. It could take 2 to 3 weeks to fully stand straight up after your tummy tuck, so don’t expect this change to happen overnight.
- Listen to your body. If you feel discomfort or pain when trying to stand straighter, listen to your body and back off a bit. Don’t force anything that feels uncomfortable.
- You’ll still need to avoid heavy lifting. While you might be back to walking normally after a few weeks, you’ll still need to avoid heavy lifting or more strenuous physical activity until your plastic surgeon gives you the green light.
If you still have questions about the ins and outs of tummy tuck recovery or would like to schedule a consultation, call our Sacramento office at 916-983-9895 or contact us online today!
