Small Bump After Tummy Tuck

asked 2 years ago by violeta45
Latest answer by Parham Ganchi, MD
Question viewed 693 times
Tags: abdomen, bumps

5 days ago, (16 days Tummy Tuck post-op) I noticed a bump between my breastbones. I think it's a suture. I called my doctor and he said not to worry about it. It doesn't hurt, it's not swollen nor red. It's just a bump right below the skin. Do I need to have it looked at? I still can't wear pants or anything around my stomach. I can't even touch my stomach because it's so tight. What can I do?

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5 answers to Small Bump After Tummy Tuck

Still very early after Tummy Tuck

You are only a little over two weeks out from your procedure. What you are feeling can be very normal. However, the best person to advise you is your surgeon who can actually examine you in person. Advice you get based on photos will be very limited and potentially misleading. See your surgeon and let him guide you.

Parham Ganchi, MD
Wayne Plastic Surgeon

It's likely a stitch

During a tummy tuck the rectus or six pack muscles are sutured together in the midline on most patients. To do this most surgeons us permanent suture but some still use absorbable. Many surgeons also start the stitch from the top of the muscles, ie where the bump is. Most of the suture that we use is very slippery and therefore we have to put a lot of knots in it to prevent it from unraveling. Thus the bump you have. If your surgeon used absorbable suture it will eventually go away. If... more

Christopher L. Hess, MD
Fairfax Plastic Surgeon

Could be several things

This could be several things. Your pictures are a little hard to discern, but you look quite thin. This could be your xiphoid, which is the tip of your sternum and can be palpable in thin patients. It could also be a suture, especially if the knot was not buried - discuss this with your surgeon so that he or she can reassure you of their particular technique.

W. Tracy Hankins, MD
Las Vegas Plastic Surgeon

Changes after tummy tuck surgery

Hi, you'll notice various changes in swelling and the appearance of your abdomen within the first 6 weeks following a tummy tuck. There may be swelling and occasionally fluid collections under the skin. It is not unusual that you cannot wear pants at this early stage; some patients wear sweatpants during this time to avoid any constriction. The tight sensation is also normal, and will relax over the next several weeks. Be careful to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise. ... more

Nina S. Naidu, MD
New York Plastic Surgeon

Still very early after tummy tuck to be tight

It is still very early and I would closely follow you surgeon's advice. You belly will relax with thime and you should wait. In the meantime, contact your physician for suggestions suchs as scar massage, etc.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
Chicago Plastic Surgeon

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