Surface sutures are removed from 7 to 10 days after surgery. Steristrips are pieces of special surgical paper tape that helps hold the wound. These may be left in place longer. After Surgery Getting back to normal Recovery to feeling like your normal self varies from patient to patient. If you start out in top physical condition with strong abdominal muscles, recovery from abdominoplasty will be much faster.
Some people return to work after one to two weeks.
Others take three to four weeks to rest and recuperate. Exercise will help you heal better. Even people who have never exercised before should begin an exercise program to reduce swelling, lower the chance of blood clots, and tone muscles. Vigorous exercise, however, should be avoided until you can do it comfortably. Your scars will evolve over the next six months to a year.