The Gill Center for Plastic Surgery & Dermatology
121 Vision Park Boulevard, Suite 100
Shenandoah, TX 77384
Phone: (281) 853-5308
Mon-Thurs: 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
Friday: 8 a.m. – 2 p.m.
What To Expect During Recovery From Tummy Tuck Surgery in The Woodlands, TX (Updated 2025)

One of the most common questions—and concerns—that cosmetic surgery patients have about any procedure is what’s involved in the recovery process. They want to know about the level of discomfort, how long they need to take off work, and when they’ll be able to resume exercising, among other issues. I’ve found that to be especially true among my tummy tuck patients in The Woodlands, TX.
Tummy tuck recovery also requires a thorough understanding of considerations like what time of year your surgery takes place because seasonal variations can significantly influence the healing process. We’re sharing what to expect after a tummy tuck in The Woodlands, Texas, to help you embark on your transformation with confidence.
What Happens During a Tummy Tuck?
Patients considering abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) typically have lost a significant amount of weight, either after having a baby, making lifestyle changes, or undergoing weight loss surgery. A tummy tuck removes excess skin and, in some cases, repairs diastasis recti (a condition in which abdominal muscles are separated.) Liposuction is commonly combined with the procedure to remove pockets of fat and ensure smooth, natural-looking contours.
The plastic surgeon performing the tummy tuck makes a horizontal incision that stretches from hip to hip just above the pubic area. An incision is also made around the belly button, which is repositioned as part of the procedure. Some patients may be good candidates for modified abdominoplasty surgery, such as a mini tummy tuck or an extended tummy tuck.
What Makes Abdominoplasty Popular in The Woodlands?
A tummy tuck is a highly sought-after procedure among our patients from The Woodlands, not only for its ability to enhance the physique but also for the boost in confidence it provides. A newfound sense of confidence allows tummy tuck patients to fully embrace the vibrant social scene and outdoor activities that make our area so unique and enjoyable.
Recovery: Tummy Tuck Results Are Worth the Wait
This is a significant surgical procedure that affects the body’s core muscles, so the recovery is longer than what’s typical of most other cosmetic surgery procedures. As you can see in our before-and-after photos, the results are so dramatic, though, that patients almost universally believe the recovery is definitely worth it.
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What Factors Impact Tummy Tuck Recovery?
Downtime
Most patients need 2 weeks to recover before resuming normal, daily activities, including non-physical work.
Sleeping
Getting enough rest after tummy tuck surgery is important, but finding a safe, comfortable sleeping position can be tricky those first couple of days. It’s best to sleep with your upper body elevated; many people find sleeping in a recliner is the easiest and most comfortable position. You can learn more sleeping tips in our related blog post about sleeping after a mommy makeover.
Movement & Exercise
It is important to get up and move around briefly, even on the day of the surgery, to promote good circulation and minimize risks of complications. You won’t be able to stand upright for a few days, and it may be uncomfortable at first.
It will be several weeks before you should begin exercising—typically, about 6 weeks before vigorous exercise is OK.
Compression Garments
As part of tummy tuck recovery, patients wear a post-surgical elastic compression garment. These garments aid in the reduction of swelling, making recovery shorter and more comfortable. In most cases, patients can stop wearing these specialized abdominal binders after about 6 weeks.
Lifting Restrictions
If you’re a mom with young children at home, it’s important to know before scheduling a tummy tuck (or a Mommy Makeover that combines breast enhancement surgery with abdominoplasty) that you’ll have to avoid lifting a baby or toddler during the recovery period. Planning for child care is an important part of preparing for a tummy tuck in these cases.
Climate
Summer in The Woodlands is synonymous with high temperatures and humidity, which can pose extra challenges during tummy tuck recovery. Other seasonal variations can also impact the healing process.
During summer, I advise my patients to:
- Avoid sun exposure, especially during peak heat hours as overheating and excessive sweating may increase the risk of infection.
- Stay hydrated to support healing and reduce swelling.
- Protect your incision sites by keeping them clean and dry and wearing breathable clothing to minimize perspiration and irritation.
Patients who undergo a tummy tuck during the fall typically enjoy these recovery benefits:
- Comfortable temperatures and lower humidity, which creates favorable conditions for recovery.
- More freedom to enjoy the outdoors by taking short walks to promote circulation and boost healing without the risk of sun exposure and overheating.
During our relatively mild Texas winters, it’s helpful to keep these recovery considerations top-of-mind:
- Bundle up as needed with appropriate winter clothing, but opt for softer layers that provide warmth without putting too much pressure on your incisions.
- Protect your skin from cooler air by properly moisturizing, but avoid harsh lotions and steer clear of incision areas until they are fully healed.
In general, carefully following post-op instructions, monitoring your incision sites, and maintaining a healthy, balanced diet fosters smoother healing no matter what time of year your tummy tuck takes place.
Learn About Your Tummy Tuck Options
If you’d like to learn more about the tummy tuck procedure and what to expect during recovery in and around The Woodlands, TX, contact us online to request a consultation with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Paul Gill or call our practice at (281) 853-5308 to schedule an appointment.
This blog post was originally published in November 2015 and last updated in January 2025.
Tagged with: Dr. Paul S. Gill • The Gill Center • Tummy Tuck
* All information subject to change. Images may contain models. Individual results are not guaranteed and may vary.
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