I had my surgery June 19th. Brachioplasty, tummy tuck and some lipo around hips and “saddle bags”. I haven’t had a bowel movement since I had surgery 5 days now. I’m very nervous about it since I have taken opioids for pain and I know they cause constipation. I don’t want want to have to “push” for obvious reasons. I’ve been taking colase, does nothing. An advice? I’m scared!
June 24, 2018
Answer: Constipation Dear DeannaS,you are right, opioids can cause this kind of problem. Every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
June 24, 2018
Answer: Constipation Dear DeannaS,you are right, opioids can cause this kind of problem. Every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
June 25, 2018
Answer: Constipation after surgery Thanks for the question. Constipation is very common after surgery. This is often related to the use of narcotics for postoperative pain control. Narcotics reduce bowel activity resulting in constipation. The more narcotics that are taken the higher the risk for constipation. The first solution is to only take the narcotics if you need them. Most patients are off of narcotics within a week after surgery. Having a tummy tuck with muscle tightening can also contribute to postoperative constipation. The second potential solution is a new medication on the market called Movantik which is specifically designed to treat opioid induced constipation.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
June 25, 2018
Answer: Constipation after surgery Thanks for the question. Constipation is very common after surgery. This is often related to the use of narcotics for postoperative pain control. Narcotics reduce bowel activity resulting in constipation. The more narcotics that are taken the higher the risk for constipation. The first solution is to only take the narcotics if you need them. Most patients are off of narcotics within a week after surgery. Having a tummy tuck with muscle tightening can also contribute to postoperative constipation. The second potential solution is a new medication on the market called Movantik which is specifically designed to treat opioid induced constipation.
Helpful 1 person found this helpful
