In the intermediate recovery period between one and eight weeks after your tummy tuck you will be able to walk more upright and feel more comfortable walking and climbing stairs (which you will be encouraged to do). The drain tubes are usually removed at your first or second post operation appointment within the first three to seven days. There will be a few sutures from your tummy tuck that will require removal at 7-10 days (the rest will be absorbed into your body). Bruising, if present, usually disappears within the first one to two weeks. A majority of the swelling will disappear by this time, however, you will experience continued improvement during the following weeks. After the first two weeks, scar massage will be encouraged to soften and flatten the scar from your tummy tuck. Lifting exercises will be significantly limited for the first 6-8 weeks, however, walking for exercise and related activities such as Elliptical trainers, or bicycling could be attempted as early as four weeks.
