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Breathing Problems and GERD After Tummy Tuck

The day after surgery, I had to start on inhalers for shortness of breath because I felt like I couldn't fully inflate my lungs. I have also developed GERD, and when I eat a full meal, I can't breathe. I also can't eat as much as I did before. My doctor says there is nothing wrong with me, and that he didn't cause this problem. I also have a very tight stomach, and the upper belly is very large and hard.

Is my stomach too tight and not letting my lungs expand?

Is it possible that my diaphragm was pushed up so high because my Tummy Tuck is so tight, that it's making it hard to breathe? I feel like I'm going to stop breathing one day and I don't know what to do.

Asked 33 months ago by tracy in vb in va

Read my review "Developed Asthma Symptoms and Gerd After TT - Virginia Beach"

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Yes, you are correct.

With significant tightening of the rectus muscles of the abdominal wall, there is a decrease in intra-abdominal space. Ones internal organs will be squeezed and this could increase pressure on the diaphragm. I have heard this complaint in the past but rest assured it is a temporary condition. The pressure should gradually diminish and your symptoms should subside.

Leslie H. Stevens, MD

Beverly Hills Plastic Surgeon

ASAPS ASPS

Your tummy tuck could be the cause of your problems

You did not give any details about your body habitus prior to surgery. It can happen in fairly large people with a protruding abdomen, that when they undergo an abdominoplasty and make the abdomen flat, the intra-abdominal contents are squeezed into a smaller space. This in turn pushes against the diaphragm, and thus limits expansion of the lower lung segments. I lay my patients down in the supine position on my examination table and examine them that way as well. If their abdomen does not... more

George Marosan, MD

Bellevue Plastic Surgeon

ASAPS ASPS

If it is hard to breathe, you should call your doctor ASAP

This is possible and the most likely cause of your symptoms. This is not a cause for concern over the longterm. However, there are potential causes of shorteness of breath which are an emergency. The most severe concern is a pulmonary embolism. You should relate these symptoms to your physician as soon as possible.