How To Sit On Toilet After Tummy Tuck

Navigating daily activities after a tummy tuck requires adapting your movements to protect your healing abdomen. Sitting on the toilet is one such activity that demands a modified approach. Here's how to manage this with minimal strain.

Preparing for the Bathroom Trip

Before you even enter the bathroom, have everything you need within easy reach. This includes toilet paper, flushable wipes (if your surgeon approves), any prescribed ointments for your incision, and clean, loose-fitting clothing to change into afterward.

Assess the Toilet Height

The height of your toilet significantly impacts how much you'll need to bend at your waist. If your toilet is low, consider using a toilet seat riser. These devices add several inches to the height of the toilet, reducing the strain on your abdominal muscles when sitting and standing. You can find these at most drugstores or medical supply stores.

Positioning Yourself

Face the toilet directly. Avoid twisting or turning your body, which can put unnecessary pressure on your incision.

The Sitting Process

Lowering yourself onto the toilet needs to be done slowly and deliberately. Do not simply drop down. Instead, use a controlled descent, relying on your leg muscles and arms for support.

Using Your Legs and Arms

Spread your feet slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. This provides a stable base. Reach behind you and place your hands on the toilet seat or grab bars (if available). Slowly bend your knees, using your leg muscles to control the lowering motion. Simultaneously, use your arm strength to support your weight. Aim to distribute the effort evenly between your legs and arms.

Leaning Slightly Backwards

As you lower yourself, lean slightly backwards. This helps to engage your back muscles and reduce the strain on your abdominal muscles. Think of it as a gentle counter-balance to the forward motion of sitting.

Avoid Bending at the Waist

The key is to minimize bending at the waist. This is where a toilet seat riser comes in handy. The higher the seat, the less you'll need to bend.

If Bending is Unavoidable

If you must bend forward to reach something (like toilet paper), do so very slowly and deliberately. Engage your core muscles (as much as is comfortable) to support your spine. Avoid sudden or jerky movements.

During Your Time on the Toilet

Even while seated, you can take steps to minimize strain.

Maintaining Proper Posture

Sit upright with your back straight. Avoid slouching or hunching over, as this can compress your abdominal area.

Breathing Properly

Consciously breathe deeply and evenly. Holding your breath can increase abdominal pressure. Focus on inhaling and exhaling slowly and rhythmically.

Supporting Your Core

Gently engage your core muscles (again, as much as is comfortable). This helps to support your spine and reduce strain on your incision.

The Standing Process

Getting back up is as important as sitting down. Use the same controlled movements you used to lower yourself.

Using Your Legs and Arms Again

Place your feet flat on the floor, slightly wider than shoulder-width apart. Reach behind you and place your hands on the toilet seat or grab bars. Lean slightly forward and use your leg muscles and arm strength to push yourself up. Focus on using your legs to do most of the work.

Avoid Pulling with Your Abdominal Muscles

Resist the urge to pull yourself up using your abdominal muscles. This can put a lot of strain on your incision and potentially delay healing.

Maintaining a Straight Back

Keep your back straight as you stand up. Avoid bending at the waist. If necessary, use your hands on your thighs to help support yourself.

Taking Your Time

Don't rush the process. Stand up slowly and deliberately, taking your time to regain your balance.

Post-Toilet Routine

Once you're standing, take a moment to ensure you feel stable before moving away from the toilet.

Washing Your Hands

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water. This is crucial for preventing infection.

Drying Yourself

Pat yourself dry with a clean towel. Avoid rubbing, which can irritate your incision.

Applying Ointments (if prescribed)

If your surgeon has prescribed any ointments for your incision, apply them as directed.

Dressing

Put on loose-fitting clothing that won't put pressure on your abdomen. Avoid tight waistbands or restrictive garments.

Addressing Constipation

Constipation is a common side effect after surgery, due to pain medication and reduced activity. Straining during bowel movements can put significant pressure on your incision.

Dietary Considerations

Eat a diet rich in fiber, including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Fiber helps to soften stools and make them easier to pass.

Hydration

Drink plenty of water. Staying hydrated helps to prevent constipation.

Stool Softeners

Your surgeon may recommend a stool softener. These medications help to soften stools and reduce straining. Follow your surgeon's instructions carefully.

Avoiding Straining

If you feel the urge to have a bowel movement, avoid straining. Take your time and allow gravity to do its work. If you are unable to pass stool, talk to your surgeon about other options.

Seeking Assistance

Don't hesitate to ask for help if you need it. Especially in the early days after surgery, having someone assist you with bathroom trips can be invaluable.

Family and Friends

Enlist the help of family and friends to provide assistance. They can help you get to and from the bathroom, and provide support while you're seated.

Medical Professionals

If you have any concerns about your recovery, don't hesitate to contact your surgeon or other healthcare professional. They can provide personalized advice and address any issues you may be experiencing.

Toilet Trip Checklist

Before:

• Gather all necessary supplies (toilet paper, wipes, ointment, clean clothes).
• Assess toilet height; consider a riser.
• Position yourself facing the toilet.

During:

• Lower yourself slowly using legs and arms.
• Lean slightly backward.
• Avoid bending at the waist.
• Maintain proper posture.
• Breathe deeply and evenly.
• Engage core gently.

After:

• Stand up slowly using legs and arms.
• Avoid pulling with abdominal muscles.
• Wash and dry hands thoroughly.
• Apply ointment (if prescribed).
• Dress in loose clothing.