Tummy tuck tightness 15 months post op

Question

I had a tummy tuck with muscle repair 15months ago and just the last month or so had had a tightness feeling which c obut not painful. Could this be related to inflammation from salty food or likely sound a problem? It wasn’t happening a couple of months ago, no sign of muscle repair failure no bulges but just seems right at times and I’m swelling on and off, what could cause this? After the surgery I lost around 10/12 lb but have put 7 back on but this does not exceed weight on day of.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding post-tummy tuck tightness. It’s common for patients to experience some tightness, especially after muscle repair, even 15 months after surgery. This sensation can fluctuate based on several factors, including changes in diet, physical activity, and minor weight gain. Salty foods, for example, can cause your body to retain water, potentially leading to increased abdominal swelling and tightness.

Since there are no signs of muscle repair failure, like bulges or pain, your symptoms are likely due to occasional swelling rather than a structural problem. It may help to reduce sodium intake and keep up with regular hydration to minimize bloating and tightness. You might also find light abdominal massages and gentle stretching beneficial in promoting circulation and comfort.

As always, if you notice any sudden changes or increased discomfort, I would suggest following up with your plastic surgeon to ensure everything is healing as expected.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Terrilouj,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your inquire,

Scar tissue can continue to develop and remodel for up to two years after surgery. Sometimes, excess scar tissue (adhesions) forms between the muscle and skin layers, leading to a feeling of tightness. Minor swelling can persist, although it’s usually subtle by 15 months. Some patients also report a sensation of tightness as the skin continues to adapt and settle.

If the tightness feels restrictive, painful, or worsens with time, discussing it with your surgeon is important. Physical therapy, targeted massage, and gentle stretching can often help ease the sensation and improve comfort over time.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Guler Gamze Eren, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It seems that you had a bowel problem. You should reduce salt, coke and unhealthy food from your diet. If this situation persists you should go and see a doctor for a check.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Occasional tightness could be from many factors.  Has your activity level changed? It could be diet related as you mentioned.  How long does it last when it occurs? What improves it or makes it worse? Visit with your surgeon for an evaluation if your symptoms continue.

Pawel Szychta, MD, PhD, DSc · Answer

Intermittent tightness and swelling 15 months after a tummy tuck with muscle repair can be due to factors like scar tissue, weight changes, or fluid retention from high salt intake. While salty foods can cause temporary swelling, experiencing these symptoms after such a long time is uncommon. It's important to consult your surgeon or a healthcare professional to evaluate your symptoms and determine the cause.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You may have an unrelated issue that is causing the discomfort. I suggest being checked for food allergies first.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Without seeing proper before and after pictures, we can’t really begin to make an assessment regarding the outcome of any plastic surgery procedure.
From what you describe most likely, the problem is excess visceral, fat, and this is best treated with weight loss.
Individuals who have access this old fat may not be ideal candidates for tummy tuck surgery.
The muscle tightening will reduce the intro abdominal space and if there is excess visceral fat The procedure may create increased intraAbdominal pressure.Your description of weight gain after surgery would also concur with the fact that excess visual fat is most likely the culprit.
Weight loss should make things better if that’s the case.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD

Tummy tuck tightness 15 months post op

Answers (8)

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