Post-Op Exercise: When and How to Start Moving After Plastic Surgery
Surgery, whether cosmetic or reconstructive, is a significant event in any woman’s life. The decision to undergo a procedure like a tummy tuck, liposuction, BBL, or a mommy makeover is often motivated by personal transformation and self-improvement. Yet, the road to recovery can feel daunting. There’s the discomfort of the initial healing phase, the emotional rollercoaster of post-surgery recovery, and the critical journey to regain strength and mobility. One crucial aspect of this process is post-op exercise.
Whether you’re in the pre-surgery phase of researching what’s next or already feeling the effects of a slower-than-expected recovery, understanding when and how to start moving after surgery is key to minimizing recovery time and getting back to your routine with confidence.
At Vital Massage & Bodywork, we’re not only experts in lymphatic massage therapy but also passionate about providing holistic support for post-op patients looking to reclaim their strength and vitality after surgery. Our mobile services come to you, so you can recover in the comfort of your own home. Let’s dive into the best practices for post-op exercise and how it can play a pivotal role in your healing process!
Why Post-Op Exercise Is Crucial for Recovery
When you undergo a major surgery, the body goes through physical trauma. It’s not just about the incision or the area that’s being worked on—it’s about the toll the process takes on your muscles, your connective tissues, and even your mindset. That’s why it’s vital to reintroduce movement carefully and mindfully.
Post-operative exercise offers several important benefits:
Speeds Up Healing: Proper movement encourages oxygen and nutrients to reach healing tissues, which can accelerate the recovery process.
Maintains Muscle Tone: Surgery often leaves you feeling sore, stiff, and immobile. Rebuilding muscle strength post-surgery is important for both aesthetic and functional recovery.
Boosts Mood and Reduces Stress: Physical activity releases endorphins, helping to alleviate the mental and emotional toll that recovery can have. (If you need support in that area, check out our previous blog post on How to Manage the Mental and Emotional Aspects of Post-Surgery Recovery.)
At Vital Massage & Bodywork, we understand that getting back to movement is a priority for you. That’s why we offer post-op massage therapy that supports the healing of your body as you start to move again.
When Should You Start Moving After Surgery?
The timing of post-op exercise is critical. Too much too soon can cause injury or slow your recovery, while waiting too long can prolong stiffness and impede healing.
Listen to Your Body: One of the most important things you can do after surgery is to listen to your body. In the immediate aftermath, rest is essential. However, after a few days to a week (depending on the surgery), gentle movement is generally recommended. For example, after a tummy tuck, light walking around the house can start as early as the second or third day, while avoiding any strenuous activities.
Follow Your Doctor’s Guidelines: Your surgeon will provide specific recommendations on when and how to start moving. For example, after a BBL, your doctor may suggest no sitting for extended periods for the first few weeks, while after liposuction, they may advise light stretching and walking. Always consult with your healthcare provider before beginning any post-surgery exercise routine.
Start Slowly: The first few weeks after surgery should focus on light movements—walking around the house, gentle stretching, and basic mobility exercises. These activities can help maintain circulation without placing undue stress on your healing body.
Types of Post-Op Exercise to Consider
After your initial healing phase, you can gradually introduce more structured movements. Below are some types of exercises that may be suitable as you progress through your recovery. Always consult with your doctor and listen to your body as you move forward.
Walking: One of the gentlest and most beneficial exercises to start with, walking helps stimulate blood flow, improve circulation, and encourage lymphatic drainage—especially important if you’re recovering from liposuction or a tummy tuck.
Gentle Stretching: Stretching can be an excellent way to regain flexibility and prevent stiffness, but it should be done gently and progressively. Focus on areas that may have been tight from surgery.
Low-Impact Cardio: As you move past the first few weeks of recovery, low-impact cardio (like swimming, biking, or using a stationary bike) can help rebuild your cardiovascular fitness without putting pressure on your healing body.
How Vital Massage & Bodywork Supports Your Recovery
As you embark on the road to recovery, you may be wondering how you can effectively manage swelling, pain, and muscle tension. That’s where Vital Massage & Bodywork can help. Our mobile lymphatic massage therapy services are designed to assist in your recovery process from the comfort of your own home.
Our team of experienced professionals offers the following services to support your post-op journey:
Lymphatic Massage: This specialized technique helps promote fluid circulation and reduce swelling, which can speed up your recovery. It’s particularly beneficial after procedures like liposuction, tummy tucks, and mommy makeovers.
Customized Recovery Plans: Every recovery is unique, which is why we take the time to create a plan tailored specifically to your needs. Whether you’re recovering from a tummy tuck or a BBL, we’re here to support you at every step.
We understand that you’re busy—whether you’re juggling family commitments or work responsibilities—and that’s why we offer mobile services. We come directly to your home, saving you time and offering the convenience of receiving professional care in the comfort of your space.
Ready to take the next step? Book a consultation today, and let’s start crafting a recovery plan that fits seamlessly into your busy life.
