Yoga After a Tummy Tuck

Yoga can be a gentle way to get back into your body after surgery. This versatile discipline can be used to aid the recovery process after an abdominoplasty procedure, or simply to reintroduce activity into your life following the surgery. Depending on your fitness level prior to surgery, your recovery time will vary. For this reason, it is important to consider your body's unique needs when deciding to begin yoga after a tummy tuck.

Benefits

• Yoga improves circulation to help diminish the risk of blood clots after surgery. It has also been long known to strengthen the mind-body connection, which can be beneficial after an appearance-altering procedure such as a tummy tuck. According to an article written by Dr. Timothy McCall for "Yoga Journal," Yoga relieves stress by regulating the body's nervous system. Less stress means more resources your body can dedicate to the recovery process.

Types

• One popular type of yoga is called Ashtanga. It involves alternating between several vinyasas (poses) in fast, flowing motions with emphasis on the breath. Other yoga practices involve holding each vinyasa for a longer amount of time. Most vinyasas require abdominal muscle engagement. Breath control through pranayama techniques can be useful in lightly engaging the stomach area to improve post-surgery swelling and blood circulation.

Considerations

• Yoga has many uses and benefits. It is important to predetermine the specific benefits you hope to attain through the practice of this discipline. Depending on the desired effects, there may be other---more suitable---disciplines worth considering. An example is that of Feldenkrais therapy, founded by the physicist Moshe Feldenkrais. It is commonly used by dancers and can be a good tool for recovery and body awareness. Thus, an informed vision is key in reaping your desired results.

Prevention/Solution

• To avoid unnecessary pressure on the core after a tummy tuck, it is best to use yoga straps when practicing vinyasas that would normally challenge the lower abdominal muscles. The straps can be found at most fitness stores. Whether you are reintegrating yoga into your life as part of a routine, or using it as a tool for recovery, it may be best to begin with simple meditation unaccompanied by any postures to prevent strain for the first days following surgery.

Warning

• Remember to speak with your doctor before beginning any exercise regime, especially one following a tummy tuck procedure. Risks following surgery include wound reopening, which could be aggravated by some yoga poses, and an increased chance of blood clots. Yoga poses following surgery should be simple in order to minimize potential problems, so even those new to yoga will find movements suitable for their level of fitness.