Is it possible I have broken sutures after my tummy tuck?

I recommend patients to refrain from heavy physical activity and sex until after two weeks or until they feel that they have the stamina. Obviously, it all depends on the extent of physical activity and sex! You should not strain yourself for at least 2-4 weeks.

It is advisable to avoid strenuous physical activity for 2 months after abdominoplasty.  Activity before that time can result in hematoma, seroma, wound failure and other complications.

Thank you for your question regarding the possibility of broken sutures following your tummy tuck surgery, particularly after engaging in sexual activity earlier than recommended.

Engaging in any strenuous activity, including sexual intercourse, within the first week after a tummy tuck can indeed pose risks to your healing process. Your body is still in the early stages of recovery during this time, and the abdominal tissues and sutures are particularly vulnerable. The development of a seroma, especially one containing blood, can be an indication that the internal tissues have been stressed or that the sutures may have been compromised. While a seroma can develop even with careful adherence to post-operative instructions, the presence of blood and the need for repeated drainage suggests that your abdominal tissues have undergone significant stress.

It is possible that engaging in sexual activity so soon after surgery may have caused some sutures to break or stretch, which can lead to complications such as a seroma, hematoma, or delayed healing. However, it’s important to note that not all cases of seroma or post-operative complications will require corrective surgery. Your surgeon will assess the extent of any damage and decide whether further intervention is necessary.

If the seroma continues to recur or if there are signs of more significant complications, such as a hernia or substantial muscle separation, your surgeon may recommend additional treatment or even a minor corrective procedure. On the other hand, if the situation stabilizes with continued drainage and proper wound care, you may not need further surgery.

It’s crucial to communicate openly with your plastic surgeon about the timeline and details of your post-operative activities. They can provide a more accurate assessment of your condition and guide you on the best course of action to ensure proper healing and minimize the risk of further complications. Moving forward, following your surgeon’s recommendations closely is essential to achieve the best possible outcome from your tummy tuck.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Thank you for your question. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals. Depending on the extent of your abdominoplasty and your general physical condition. Any sexual activity should be avoided for a minimum of two weeks. Dhaval M. Patel Double board certified Plastic surgeon Hoffman Estates Barrington Oakbrook Chicago

Without an exam and looking at the character and amount of fluid you have retained it is impossible to answer your questions. I agree it was foolish and potentially harmful to have sex against medical advice so soon after your surgery. Close follow up by your plastic surgeon and following his/her advice carefully needed at this point. 

Seroma is a relatively common minor complication following tummy tuck surgery.  It is prevented by placing drains during surgery, and leaving them in place for a sufficient amount of time.  While it is theoretically possible that you may have affected your internal plication suture line, or the healing of your wound, by engaging in intercourse in the early post-op period, it is unlikely that this is the cause of your seroma. Without examining you, it is very difficult to tell if any further intervention beyond your current care is needed.  I'd recommend continued regular follow-up with your plastic surgeon.