10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Question

I had my full abdominoplasty with muscle repair (no lipo) on November 5 of last year. It is ten months later and I have no improvement with the numbness in my belly. From hip-to-hip, ribs to mons, it is still completely numb. Do you think this has any chance of improving, or do I just have widespread, permanent nerve damage? I have gotten used to it by now, but a lot of my fellow November 2013 people have only just a little numbness below/around their belly button. Thanks.

Yily De Los Santos, MD · Answer

Numbness after a Tummy Tuck is often common. You should discuss your conerns with your plastic surgeon

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Although uncommon, permanent
numbness can occur after tummy tuck surgery, especially in the lower mid
line area between the scar and belly button. After 10 months there can be
some improvement but it is doubtful. In most cases there is some sensation
present, just not the normal pre-surgical amount. The good news is that it does
not affect your normal functions and with time, most people are no longer aware
or concerned with its presence.

#tummytucknumbness #tummytuckpost-op

Lewis Albert Andres, MD · Answer

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!

Constance M. Barone, MD · Answer

After a full tummy tuck Lowe central permanent numbness is the rule.  However, widespread numbness usually resolves.  It is also common to have permanent numbness after a C section. Best to discuss with your surgeon. Best to you.

Maan Kattash, MD, FRCS, FACS - Account Suspended · Answer

Numbness in your lower abdomen following tummy tuck surgery is expected. In part, this is related to the severance of the random cutaneous nerves while elevating the abdominal flap.This should settle down and improve with time. I have seen partial numbness last up to a year but not "total" numbness as you describe. This can be an issue in diabetics or patients with major systemic problems but not in an overall healthy patient. You are still in the global period. Best to have this checked out by your plastic surgeon for evaluation and advice.

10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

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Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

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10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answers (5)

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

Answer: 10 months post op Tummy Tuck, will widespread numbness resolve at all?

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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