You should wait to have sex after tummy tuck for at least 3 weeks if you have had a mini tummy tuck. If you have undergone a full tummy tuck, we recommend to wait 4-6 weeks.
The reason to wait is a precaution to ensure that the healing of incisions and abdominal muscles is not disrupted. By waiting, you minimise the risk of developing a haematoma or a seroma, and also prevent the swelling from growing.
Risk when having sex too soon after a tummy tuck
Each person recovers at their own pace, and the time it takes to safely resume sex after tummy tuck will depend on both your individual healing process and the type of tummy tuck procedure you have had.
Returning to sex after tummy tuck, before your body has had sufficient time to recover, can disrupt the healing process and lead to unwanted complications. Movements that engage the abdominal area, as well as increased circulation and pressure, may place unnecessary strain on the surgical site.
- Healing incisions under pressure
Any direct or indirect pressure on the treated area may interfere with how the incisions close, which can increase the chance of them pulling apart or healing with wider, more visible scars. - Strain on repaired muscles
Many tummy tuck procedures involve repairing and tightening the abdominal muscles. Sexual positions that involve core engagement can place stress on these repairs, increasing the risk of muscle separation or weakening the result. - Prolonged swelling and pain
Being physically active too soon may worsen swelling and trigger discomfort, which could delay the overall healing and affect how the final outcome looks and feels.
Tips
Have you waited for at least 3 weeks and gotten the thumbs up from your surgeon to consider intimacy? To make a safe and comfortable return to sex after a tummy tuck, you may find some positions are more comfortable than others, as they place less pressure on the abdomen and allow you to ease back into intimacy without straining the surgical area.
- Wait for clear signs of healing
Ensure that your incision sites are fully closed, and there is no discomfort during routine activities. - Initiate with care
Start with gentle, less physically demanding sexual activity and positions to gauge your comfort level and slowly build up as your confidence in your healing grows. - Open communication with your partner
Discuss your surgery and recovery openly with your partner to ensure they understand the need for a cautious approach. - Choose positions wisely
Initially, opt for positions that place little to no strain on your abdomen and allow you to control movement and pace. Positions where you can lie on your back with minimal engagement of the core muscles, such as when your partner is on top, are often more comfortable. Side-lying positions may also be suitable, as they reduce strain on the abdominal area and allow for gentle, controlled movements. Your surgeon can provide specific recommendations based on the details of your surgery. - Follow your surgeon's specific advice
Your surgeon may offer more personalised guidelines based on the complexity of your tummy tuck and your overall health.
Adoreal keeps you informed
Many patients have questions about how long after tummy tuck it’s safe to have sex. With Adoreal, you’ll receive guidance throughout your whole recovery. Our support covers all parts of your journey bouncing back, from wound care and activity levels to resuming intimacy. If you are unsure about any stage of the healing process, you can easily get in touch with your surgeon directly through the Adoreal app.