Why am I coughing so much? Ever since I did my tummy tuck I have a bad cough.

It is extremely rare to release the muscle repair after an abdominoplasty.  If it did occur, you would usually feel a 'release" (with or without a 'pop') and a noticeable change in the anterior abdominal contour.  Use a soft pillow to hold against your abdomen while coughing.  This will help.The coughing for 9 days on antibiotics may lend a diagnosis of a viral infection (or mistreated bacterial infection, but I highly doubt this).  If so, it may take up to another 4-5 days to improve.  You should follow up with your surgeon either way.  Also, take your temperature daily to make sure you do not have a fever.Best of luck with your recovery.

I have not had a diastasis recurrence after hundreds and hundreds of tummy tucks, but logically this could happen.  If you can press on your abdomen and it still feels tight, the repair is intact.  You can always confirm this with your plastic surgeon.   A binder or pillow over the stomach can help when coughing.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon Los Angeles, CA

It is possible to disrupt the muscle plication suture(s) with vigorous coughing, though not commonly. Because you have active issues going on, it is best to stay in close contact with your treating physician to monitor them rather than Real Self.