Recovering from a tummy tuck? Here’s the week-by-week healing timeline, swelling, mobility, work return & care — guided by Aetheris Plastic Surgery, Pune.
So you’ve been considering a tummy tuck.
You’ve probably imagined the final result — a flatter abdomen, a smoother silhouette, clothes fitting better, confidence returning.
But then comes the real question every patient asks:
“How long will recovery take?”
“When can I walk? Work? Resume workouts?”
“What does Week 1, Week 3, Week 6 look like?”
If you’ve been Googling this endlessly, take a deep breath — this blog breaks down exactly what recovery from a Tummy Tuck looks like, week by week, based on real clinical patterns and healing milestones.
If you’re planning Tummy Tuck Surgery in Pune, here is a realistic, medically accurate time-line of what to expect after surgery with Dr. Swaminathan Ravi at Aetheris Plastic Surgery.
🌙 Day 0 – Surgery Day
Your tummy tuck is usually performed under general anaesthesia.
Loose skin & fat are removed, abdominal muscles tightened, and the belly button is repositioned — creating a firmer, toned midsection.
You’ll wake up with:
You’ll spend the night in the hospital — resting, hydrated, safe.
Day 1–3: Slow, Careful Movements Begin
Movement is encouraged early — gentle walking reduces the risk of blood clots.
Expect:
Focus only on rest, hydration, nutrition, and slow movement.
Your body is rebuilding itself — let it.
Week 1: Rest, Compression, Healing
Stitches remain protected.
Swelling is still visible — do not judge results yet.
During this week:
Most patients report:
“I’m sore, but improving every day.”
Week 2: Mobility Improves, Confidence Builds
You’ll feel lighter than Week 1.
Incision heals, swelling reduces.
In many cases:
This week often brings emotional relief — you start to see shape returning.
Week 3–4: Visible Change Begins
You’re moving comfortably now.
Swelling continues to reduce.
Clothes begin fitting differently.
During this phase:
You will feel your abdomen strengthen — core repair is settling beautifully.
Week 6 and Beyond: A New You
This is where things get exciting.
At the 6-week mark:
By 3–6 months:
Your abdomen looks flatter, firmer & tighter.
By 12–18 months:
Scars fade significantly — often barely visible.
What Makes Recovery Smoother?
✔ Wearing your compression garment religiously
✔ Early but gentle walking
✔ Avoiding smoking & alcohol during recovery
✔ Following scar-care routine
✔ Healthy diet + adequate hydration
✔ Listening to your surgeon more than Google
Recovery is not just physical — it’s emotional.
Every week feels like progress. Every inch of contour feels earned.
💬 A Quick Reality Check
And remember — you’re not recovering alone.
You’ll be guided step-by-step by your surgical team.
Ready to plan your transformation?
Your recovery journey deserves expertise, empathy, and precision.
📍 Consult Dr. Swaminathan Ravi
Aetheris Plastic Surgery — Kharadi, Pune
📞 95294 90494
📧 puneplasticsurgery@gmail.com
Book a one-on-one consultation to understand your personalized recovery timeline, surgical approach, and expected results.
You’re one decision away from the confidence you’ve been imagining.
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