Tummy tuck is a major procedure, and the patients should be prepared for a significant recovery period after surgery. Certain patients may need to stay overnight in the hospital after abdominoplasty. Swelling and pain are to be expected, but they can be controlled with compression bandages and medication. Patients should spend the first few days after surgery resting and recovering. The doctor usually removes stitches about a week after surgery. At this point, most tummy tuck patients are ready to begin a light exercise regimen that will speed the healing process and help prevent blood clots. Patients need to continue wearing their compression bandages and exercising gently for several weeks, but should avoid strenuous activity for up to six weeks as they heal.