So, you finally went for it—a tummy tuck with muscle repair. Whether you’d been dreaming of this moment for years or decided on a whim to take the plunge after getting pregnant or losing weight, one thing’s certain: The journey isn’t quite over yet. The hardest part? Recovery.

Let’s be real, this is not a procedure where you wake up a week later looking like a fitness model, pain-free, and as if nothing has happened in your life. Nope! It’s something that takes time, patience, and a little self-love. So don’t stress—I'm here to offer you a no-frills, realistic guide to what happens (and why it happens) and how you can make your recovery journey just a touch smoother.

First 48 Hours: The “What Did I Get Myself Into?” Phase

When you wake up from surgery, you’ll realize this is no ordinary day. Your abdomen will feel tight, sore, and maybe even a little strange—after all, your core muscles were literally stitched back together. The first two days are paramount because this is when your body starts the hard work of healing.

Here’s what you can expect in these early hours:

✅ You’ll feel stiff and sore: You’ll be stiff and sore. Every movement will be a struggle, and standing up straight may be difficult. Strut like an old lady—it’s all good!

✅ You might have drains: Annoying, yes, but these are used to help strip your body of excess fluid and lessen swelling. Your surgeon will tell you when it’s safe to remove them.

✅ Pain meds will be your best friend: Don’t try to tough it out. Hear your doctor’s orders and take them as directed.

✅ You’ll need help: Ladies, just trust me, getting up from bed on your own will feel like the Olympic sport you never knew you signed up for. Find someone to be there to help with simple things.

Week 1: Learning to Move Again

The first week is baby steps—literally. It’s common to walk hunched over; when you’re walking, you will likely feel like everything is pulling when you try to stand up. But don’t worry, that’s all normal and part of healing.

Key Focus: Rest, hydration, and gentle movement.

• Compression Garment = Your Lifeline
  It will be a bit tighter than normal, as you'll be wearing a compression garment, but it aids in swelling and provides your abdomen with much-needed support. Don’t skip it!
  
  

• Short Walks Are a Must
  Even if you think you would rather stay in bed all day, getting out for short, slow walks around your house helps ease stiffness and promotes circulation.
  
  

• Natural Relief Can Help
  If soreness is bothering you, consider using CBD Salve 3000mg. Many people swear by natural options to help their muscles feel more at ease.
  
  

• Sleep, But Strategically
  Sleeping on your back with pillows propped under your legs is the best way to avoid strain. Side sleeping? Not yet!
  
  

Weeks 2-3: The “I’m Healing... But Slowly” Phase

By this stage, you’re likely sick of being sore and restricted. The good news? You will begin to see real results. The bad news? You’re not quite back to normal.

What You’ll Experience:

✔ Less pain, but still discomfort: It’s getting easier to stand up straight, but don’t rush it.

✔ Swelling is still there: Sorry, but it can take months for every last bit of swelling to fully resolve. Be patient.

✔ Energy levels may fluctuate: Some days you feel like a rockstar, and other days you still need extra rest. Totally normal!

Recovery Tips:

Scar Care Matters: Use a gentle scar treatment if your surgeon gives you the green light.

Soothe Soreness Naturally: A good CBD-based salve like CBD Salve 3000mg can be a great addition to your routine.

Gradually Increase Walking: You’ll feel better moving more, but don’t push it too hard.

Eat Like You Love Your Body: The more nutrients the food contains, the faster the healing process. Lean proteins, fruits, lots of water are your friends.

Weeks 4-6: Starting to Feel Normal Again

This is when it gets spicy—you'll really feel like you are taking back your body. The swelling begins to noticeably decrease; your energy goes back up, and—if you’ve been keeping your compression garment on with religious fervor—your waist will show actual definition.

What You Can Start Doing:

✔ Standing Up Straight Like a Champ: no more hunch the next good days!

✔ Light Activity: You can start doing basic, non-strenuous activities like walking longer distances.

✔ Driving: By about this time most people feel ready to drive again, but as always, clear it with your doctor first.

What You Still Shouldn’t Do:

Heavy Lifting or Core Exercises: Your muscles are still healing. Don’t risk complications!

Skipping Your Compression Garment: No matter how great you feel, that garment is still working under the radar to assist with swelling and shaping.

Months 2-3: The Home Stretch

By now, you’re seeing major progress. Clothes fit better, you’re moving comfortably, and the idea of a workout doesn’t sound so terrifying.

Your Tummy Is Settling In: The final shape is emerging, but remember, full results take up to a year.

Gentle Workouts Can Resume: Walking, light stretching, and non-strenuous exercises can start, but hold off on crunches or weightlifting.

Final Scar Care Steps: You can start walking, light stretching, and nonstrenuous exercises, but don’t do crunches or lift weights yet.

Final Note: The Journey is Worth It!

Recovering from a tummy tuck muscle repair is not a quick fix—it’s a process that requires patience, care, and a little self-love. Some days will be frustrating, but trust the process. Every small step you take brings you closer to the firm, confident version of yourself you envisioned before surgery.

And if you’re looking for natural ways to support your recovery, don’t forget to check out CBD Salve 3000mg. A little pampering goes a long way!

Take it slow, celebrate your progress, and soon enough, you’ll be confidently rocking your new look!