What Can Cause Adbominal Bulging 7 Weeks Post Abdominoplasty?

I had full abdominoplasty with muscle repair 7 weeks ago. At 2-3 weeks, I was very happy with my results. I began working out at the gym at 5 weeks, running and light weights as advised by my surgeon. In the last 2 weeks, my abdomen now protrudes a lot and feels very full. My surgeon believes something is going on "behind" the muscle repair and that is isn't swelling as it disappears when I lie down. My GP has no answers and believes my surgeon should follow this up! Is this normal???

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2 Doctor Answers | Asked by Nic73 in Melbourne, 07

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Abdominal bulging after tummy tuck

This is an unfortunate situation. Several of my own patients have experienced this. I'm not sure why, and not sure anyone can give you a scientific answer. I've attributed late relaxation of the abdominal plication to absorbable sutures, weak abdominal fascia which has stretched, post-surgical cigarette smoking with impaired healing of the plication, "eminent domain" of intraperitoneal organs, too much activity too soon post-operatively, and perhaps other... more

Tummy Tuck Results?

Thank you for the question. Unfortunately, it is hard to make a good diagnosis without direct physical examination. Having said that, the most likely issue here is at least partial failure of the muscle plication and recurrent laxity of the abdominal wall. Although it won't hurt throughout issues “behind the muscle repair” I would suggest continued follow-up with your plastic surgeon and/or seeking a 2nd opinion with a well experienced board-certified... more