Burning Sensation Normal Weeks After Lipo and Tummy Tuck?

I'm 5 weeks post op with Tummy Tuck and Liposuction. Is it normal to feel like the inside of me is raw or burning? How long will it take it before it's safe to go without the compression garment on? Some days, when I feel as if the compression garment is rubbing me raw, I check my skin and all is fine. My back is really sore from the liposuction and I can still feel where the liposuction was inserted. Also, should I massage my skin more often in a day?

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28 Doctor Answers | Asked by Tigdo in Missouri

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What you are describing sounds normal

Everything you are describing sounds to be within the parameters of normal healing. After surgery, sensory nerves which have been stretched, bruised or cut are healing just as your skin is healing, and as they do they produce different sensations, including burning or itching. It will settle down with time, but it can take several weeks or even months to fully improve. I will often recommend massage of these areas and most patients feel that this helps. In terms of how long to wear your... more

These symptoms can be normal after Tummy Tuck

Most patients experience what you described, burning, itching, or tightness after having a tummy tuck. They are a very common occurence post-operatively and can last up to 6 months. These feeling are usually a normal result of your nerves repairing themselves after surgery. Massaging the areas with a gentle lotion can sometimes help with comfort . Our patients are also given a very light compression garment ,which at five weeks post op is not necessary to wear, but many patients have told me... more

Irritated nerves causing pain after lipo and tummy tuck surgery

Burning pain or hypersensitivity after liposuction or a tummy tuck can occur, and can be quite bothersome. In liposuction areas, as swelling and edema resolves, the sensations tend to go away. In the case of the tummy tuck, some nerve endings were divided during the surgery, and others stretched. The stretched nerves will feel better as they relax at their new length, and the others will try to heal into nerve conduits or just soft tissue. Massage is useful to help... more

Be proactive

Any pain after the immediate postop period deserves attention. Usually massage or ultrasound treatments help, and can usually stop the pain cycle before it gets out of hand. Occasionally medications such as Neurontin are necessary. In any event, communicate closely with your doctor.

Break the Cycle

It is not unusual to have a burning sensation persisting several weeks after liposuction or tummy tuck. During the course of these procedures, the normal sensory nerves are stretched or otherwise traumatized, and during the healing process there is inflammation around the nerves that may create abnormal sensations such as "raw" and "burning" pain, even in response to normal stimuli. These "Dysesthesias" may be worse if ultrasonic liposuction was used during your... more

Burning sensation after Tummy Tuck or Liposuction is normal

As the other respondees have indicated, these types of sensations are very normal after either abdominoplasty or liposuction. Irritation or disruption of the nerves is certain to occur to some extent after these procedures, and lingering effects can be seen for 12-18 months. Unlike others, I've seen very disappointing results from the use of Neurontin. In this situation in particular, patients are more bothered by the side effects of the medication than they are from the primary symptoms... more

It is normal to have mild numbness and tingling after liposuction.

It is normal to have mild numbness and tingling after liposuction. This will progressively improve as time passes. During the liposuction, the tumescent and liposuction cause stretching of the tiny sensory nerves. During the abdominoplasty, some sensory nerves are cut. Over several weeks to months, these nerves are healing and cause numbness, tingling and itching sensations. Don't worry, this will resolve. It is important to make sure that your garment is not too tight and causing more... more

Can be normal, but check with your PS to be sure

These pains and sensations can be totally normal after Liposuction and Tummy Tuck. It is typically all part of the healing process. Assuming you have no other concerns and you are seeing your PS regularly for post operative follow up visits massage can help to soften the scar tissue in these areas and help expedite the recovery. I often recommend for my patients to use a hand held massage device morning and night for 5-10 minutes over the surgical areas. more

Burning sensantion after tummy tuck and liposuction is normal.

It is normal to have a buring sensation after tummy tuck and liposuction. Some patients describe it as "burning, tingling, crawling, itching" sensation. This is due to stretching and injuring of your sensory nerves during surgery. Although this sensation is temporary, it may last several months. Massage the area couple times a day. Be careful of placing too hot or cold objects on your abdomen until your sensation gets normalized. In regards... more

Burning sensation after Tummy Tuck or Liposuction can be normal

The sensation you describe can be normal after a tummy tuck and liposuction. You are still in the healing phase and your nerves will be recovering from the surgery. The massaging will help alleviate your symptoms. Typically most patients wear a compression garment or binder for about 6wks. Some may benefit from it longer - 8wks or so. As long as it feels good and protective you can wear it. As the senstation on your abdomen returns to normal you may have these symptoms. Hydrating your... more