In this episode, we’re diving into a common — and often misunderstood — belief: that a tummy tuck automatically makes your core stronger. It’s a tempting thought, especially when the surgery gives you a flatter midsection and a tighter abdominal wall. But does that actually equal strength?

We’re breaking down what the tummy tuck truly does for your core, what it doesn’t do, and what’s up to you post-op to restore true function, stability, and strength. This episode is essential for anyone who wants to move beyond the aesthetics and really understand how to train smart after surgery.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✨ What the muscle repair in a tummy tuck actually does — and how it impacts your core structure, not just appearance.
✨ Why feeling more stable isn’t the same as being physically stronger — and how to tell the difference.
✨ How changes in pressure and tension post-op can give the illusion of strength — and why that matters.
✨ Why skipping core training after surgery can backfire — and how to rebuild strength the right way.
✨ A step-by-step approach to reconnecting with your core and progressing safely to real-world strength.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Introduction: Does a Tummy Tuck Make You Stronger?
[02:00] Meet Your Hosts + Why This Topic Matters
[03:30] What the Surgery Does — and What It Doesn’t
[07:45] Why You Might Feel Weaker After Surgery (and That’s Okay)
[11:15] The Danger of Thinking Your Core is “Fixed”
[13:00] What Creates the Feeling of Stability Post-Op?
[16:00] Lisa’s Lifting Experience: Before vs. After Surgery
[20:00] Why You May Feel Stronger — Even if You’re Not (Yet)
[22:00] Structure vs. Function: What Surgery Can and Can’t Do
[24:00] Reconnecting with Your Core: The First Step
[26:00] What Strength Training After Surgery Should Actually Look Like
[28:30] Why Recovery Timelines Vary — and How to Stay Patient
[30:00] Final Takeaways: Surgery Creates Structure, You Build Strength

Resources Mentioned:
✨ Tummy Tuck Core Rehab Program — a step-by-step guide to rebuilding core function, stability, and strength: https://www.tummytuckrehab.com/tummy-tuck-core-rehab
✨ Episode 4: When Recovery Doesn’t Go As Expected and What to Do About It — for more on managing expectations and the mental side of healing: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2414621/episodes/16693068

Thanks for tuning in! If this episode resonated with you, share it with a friend, and don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an update.

— Munira & Lisa

Love Tummy Tuck Talk!? Help us reach more listeners by rating and reviewing the show! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Your support means the world — and helps others like you get the guidance they need post-tummy tuck.

You can also follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes packed with practical tips and real talk about recovery and returning to fitness.

Check out more free tummy tuck recovery tips here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tummytuckrehab/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytuckrehab

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytuckrehab

For all of our post-op programs and resources, head on over to www.tummytuckrehab.com

Audio Track:
Track: Good Times — Ason ID [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: • Good Times — Ason ID | Free Backgroun...
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/good-times-ason-id

In this episode, we’re diving into one of the most overwhelming parts of tummy tuck recovery: the first two weeks. Whether you’ve just had surgery or are preparing for it, these early days can feel like a blur — filled with pain, uncertainty, and the question, “What can I actually do right now?”

We’re breaking down the four key things you can focus on during those crucial first weeks to support your recovery both physically and mentally. You don’t have to just lie there feeling helpless — there are safe, meaningful ways to take an active role in your healing, and we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
✨ Why breathing exercises are so much more than just deep breaths — and how they help prevent complications, improve oxygen flow, and support early core reconnection.
✨ How to approach walking in the early days — even if you’re hunched over or feel like a shuffle is all you’ve got.
✨ Why gentle stretches (yes, even in the first two weeks!) can ease tension and reduce discomfort in your hips, back, and shoulders.
✨ How to support your mindset — with mantras and reminders to keep you grounded when emotions run high and progress feels slow.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Welcome to Tummy Tuck Talk
[03:00] Why the First Two Weeks Feel So Hard
[04:30] What You Can Do Right Away — Not Just What You Can’t
[05:00] Focus #1: Breathing Exercises and Core Reconnection
[12:51] Focus #2: Walking — Why, How, and What to Expect
[22:00] Focus #3: Gentle Stretching and Movement
[31:42] Focus #4: The Mental Game — Supporting Your Mindset
[36:00] Final Thoughts and Practical Encouragement

Recovery is not a passive process — it’s active, even when movement is limited. Starting with these four things will set the tone for a more confident and empowered recovery.

Resources Mentioned:
✨ Tummy Tuck Core Rehab Program — a comprehensive guide to rebuilding strength and movement safely, step by step: https://www.tummytuckrehab.com/tummy-tuck-core-rehab

Thanks for tuning in. These early days are intense, but they’re also the foundation of everything to come. We’re here to support you every step of the way.

— Munira & Lisa

Love Tummy Tuck Talk!? Help us reach more listeners by rating and reviewing the show! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Your support means the world — and helps others like you get the guidance they need post-tummy tuck.

You can also follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes packed with practical tips and real talk about recovery and returning to fitness.

Check out more free tummy tuck recovery tips here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tummytuckrehab/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytuckrehab

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytuckrehab

For all of our post-op programs and resources, head on over to www.tummytuckrehab.com

Audio Track:
Track: Good Times — Ason ID [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: • Good Times — Ason ID | Free Backgroun...
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/good-times-ason-id

In this episode, we’re talking all things tummy tucks and fitness — specifically how to make sure your surgery supports your active lifestyle. Whether you’re a CrossFitter, a yogi, a weightlifter, or simply someone who values freedom of movement, this conversation is a must-listen.

We’re sharing our top 5 tips to help you align your tummy tuck with your fitness goals — from choosing the right surgeon to returning to movement safely and confidently. This is all about advocating for yourself, asking the right questions, and setting yourself up for long-term strength and function, not just aesthetics.

What you’ll learn in this episode:

✨ Why choosing the right surgeon matters — and how multiple consultations can help you find the best fit for your goals.

✨ Key questions to ask — about return-to-exercise timelines, suture materials, and which movements (if any) might be off-limits post-op.

✨ How surgical techniques like suture type, layer repairs, and even mesh may affect your recovery and strength.

Timestamps:

[01:06] Meet Your Hosts: Lisa & Munira

[03:00] Fitness + Function: Why This Episode Matters

[05:42] Tip #1: The Crucial Step to Take Before Choosing a Surgeon

[11:00] Tip #2: A Common Communication Mistake — and How to Avoid It

[16:21] Tip #3: The Question Most People Forget to Ask

[23:30] Tip #4: What You Need to Know About the Surgery Itself

[33:06] Tip #5: The Most Overlooked Phase of Recovery

Remember, your tummy tuck isn’t just about how you look — it’s about how you move and feel.

Resources Mentioned:

✨ Tummy Tuck Core Rehab Program — your step-by-step guide to core rebuilding, strength, and mobility: https://www.tummytuckrehab.com/tummy-tuck-core-rehab

✨ Free Consultation Checklist — the essential questions to ask during pre-op consults: [Download Here]

✨ YouTube Video: What to Ask During Consultations — a detailed walk-through of the most important questions to bring to your pre-op visits: [Watch Here]

✨ Podcast Episode 3 on core restrictions and what to do when told "no direct core work": [Listen to Episode #3]

✨ Podcast Episode 2: Cleared to Work Out Again, Why Listening to Your Body Isn't Enough and Can do More Harm than Good [Listen to Episode 2 Here]

— Munira & Lisa

Love Tummy Tuck Talk!? Help us reach more listeners by rating and reviewing the show! ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Your support means the world — and helps others like you get the guidance they need post-tummy tuck.

You can also follow the podcast so you don’t miss future episodes packed with practical tips and real talk about recovery and returning to fitness.

Check out more free tummy tuck recovery tips here:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tummytuckrehab/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@tummytuckrehab

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@tummytuckrehab

For all of our post-op programs and resources, head on over to www.tummytuckrehab.com

Audio Track:
Track: Good Times — Ason ID [Audio Library Release]
Music provided by Audio Library Plus
Watch: • Good Times — Ason ID | Free Backgroun...
Free Download / Stream: https://alplus.io/good-times-ason-id