Episode #7: "I Thought I Would be Stronger After My Tummy Tuck"

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

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

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