Pressing hard on middle stomach muscle repair line - could this cause repair failure a year and a half out?

Hi Ana090909,
It would be extraoridnarily rare that someone doing an abdominal exam could disrupt your repair. In fact, by 6-8 weeks after surgery your scar at your tummy muscle repair is nearly 100% strong. Depending on weight gain / loss over time, it is possible that you have some weakening of the connection between your six pack muscles (linea alba). However, it is very unlikely that you could disrupt the repair from even the most invasive abdominal exams by a medical provider.
Best,
Dr. Wingate

Pressing hard on the middle stomach muscle repair line (likely referring to the linea alba, where the abdominal muscles have been repaired) could potentially cause issues, depending on the specifics of the repair and the pressure applied. Here are some considerations:

Timing: If you are a year and a half out from abdominal muscle repair surgery (such as in the case of a hernia repair or diastasis recti repair), the initial healing phase should generally be complete. However, the tissues may still be remodeling and gaining strength.

Impact of Pressure: Applying excessive pressure directly on the repair line could potentially disrupt the healing tissues, especially if the pressure is sudden, intense, or repetitive. This could lead to stretching, weakening, or even tearing of the repaired muscles or tissues.

Symptoms: If you experience pain, discomfort, or notice any changes in the appearance of your abdomen after applying pressure, it's important to consult with your surgeon. These could be signs of a potential issue with the repair.

Precautions: It's generally recommended to avoid activities or behaviors that place undue stress on the abdominal muscles during the initial healing period and beyond. This includes heavy lifting, intense core exercises, or activities that involve straining the abdominal muscles.

Consultation with Surgeon: If you have concerns about the impact of pressing on the muscle repair line, it's advisable to consult with your surgeon. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific case and the details of your surgery.

In summary, while pressing on the middle stomach muscle repair line may not automatically cause repair failure a year and a half after surgery, it's important to be cautious and avoid putting excessive stress on the area. Any concerns or symptoms should be discussed promptly with your healthcare provider or surgeon to ensure appropriate management and monitoring of your abdominal health.