Can I use a TENS unit for nerve stimulation after tummy tuck?

Can a TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) unit can be used for nerve stimulation and massaging after tummy tuck, and if so, does it help?

3 answers to “Can I use a TENS unit for nerve...”

A: Use of TENS unit and massage for nerve pain & swelling following tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)

By Otto Joseph Placik, MD - Chicago Plastic Surgeon

I have not used this modality but I believe it could offer some potential benefit. I would discuss this with your surgeon first who may have strong feelings one way or the other. I would not use this unti the drains were out and you were about 3 weeks after surgery. Many advise the use of manual lymphatic... more

A: TENs unit after tummy tuck

By Jack Gelman, MD - Frankfort Plastic Surgeon

I would advise against it. The pain is mainly from the tightening of the muscle wall (plication). My patients have found the pain quite tolerable with the marcaine infusion pump.

A: It is unlikely

By Kamran Khoobehi, MD - New Orleans Plastic Surgeon

The main pain from tummy tuck is from deep layers and musle pull. The best treatment for the pain from tummy tuck for my patients been pain pump(infusion of marcaine through catheter that plantted during surgery and removed 3 days after surgery). This also has been used by orthopedic surgeons and general... more