After a Full Tummy Tuck, How Long Before the Skin Tightness and Uneveness Goes Away?

Hello! Thank you for your question! Numbness after any surgical
procedure is expected for several weeks to months following. As the
nerves to the area are traumatized and will then experience a temporary
neuropraxia, a transient loss of nerve conduction. This usually
resolves over the next 6-12 weeks, but depending on the procedure
performed, sometimes much longer. Typically this should resolve by 1
year. As it goes past this date, the likelihood of the sensation
returning is small. However, it can take up to 2 years. If no return
from there, it is unlikely to return. It should be discussed that
persistent sensory changes may develop following any surgical
procedure. The usual signs of the nerves regenerating and neuropraxia
resolving is itching, followed by a burning sensation and then
occasional sharp, shock-like pains. These will be normal to experience,
and actually a promising sign. Usually, normal sensation returns, but
is is also possible to have decreased sensation or even increased
sensation to the areas affected. Re-educating nerves postoperatively is
often helpful and will allow proper instruction for the affected
sensory nerves - methods include using different textures to the
affected areas when showering, bathing, applying lotion, etc. If
bothersome, there are some medications that may be helpful, including
Neurontin for pain for hypersensitivity. You can try various textures
such as washcloths, loofahs, cotton sheets, etc. Massaging the areas is
also beneficial for the incision to make the finest scar possible. The
last place to regain the sensation will be directly adjacent to the
incision/scar as the nerves will make its way from the periphery to this
location. If continual pain arises, evaluation is warranted. After
ruling out other causes, one rare explanation may be that a neuroma has
developed and may require surgical excision. This is very unlikely
unless a large sensory nerve has been transected inadvertently during
the procedure. Hope that this helps! Best wishes!

The tightness will ease with time and generally is better by 3 months after surgery but may take upwards of a year to feel completely norma and the scar to fade and smoothenl. I find that core strengthening with a Pilates or Yoga regimen can help improve the muscle repair and ease the tension that is felt.

Certain positions can cause
some discomfort.  2 months post-op you
will have some residual swelling and inflammation and the wounds are not mature
yet, so yes this can be normal.  Sit
straight and try to get up to move frequently, this will help with the
swelling.

Patients whp receive this procedure should expect a significant recovery process. This can include swelling, bruising, discomfort, and uneven areas. These symptoms commonly arise because of swelling throughout this area that every patient may experience differently. In our practice, we feel that it is important to give every patient to garments after their surgery. These garments help manage the swelling and provide welcome support for the patients. We typically recommend that our patients use these garments up to four months after their surgery. If you continue to have swelling seven weeks after your procedure, that may very well be normal. Your best bet is to inform your plastic surgeon of your concerns and let him or her evaluate your abdomen to determine if the swelling is expected or if additional treatment is necessary.

Your concern is common and takes time to resolve. It may take 3 to 6 months before you feel an improvement. For now, discuss this with your plastic surgeon and ask if it is OK to start a stretching program and massage the area.