Can I burst muscle plication stitches by sneezing? How easy can they burst? Thanks.

Question

I have swelling above and in the side of my belly after sneezing. It is painful. I hold my stomach when I sneeze but that doesn't help.

Christopher J. Davidson, MD, FACS · Answer

Although it is theoretically possible to burst the muscle plication sutures by coughing or sneezing, this would be very unusual.

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

In most cases, it would be very difficult to ruin the rectus muscle plication sutures with sneezing, although not impossible. Some surgeons use a single loop suture for the plication and if any portion of that suture were to either break or pull through the muscle, the repair could be influenced. But most surgeons use quite a few individual sutures and being able to break 20-30 individual sutures is unlikely. Sneezing will make things sore, but you shouldn't have any permanent problems.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Possible, but unlikely, that significant damage has been done by sneezing. However, given the “swelling” that you mention, best to be seen by your plastic surgeon for evaluation. Online consultants, without the benefit of physical examination, will not be able to provide you with specific enough advice to be truly helpful.Best wishes.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

It is possible, but quite unlikely. You don't say in your query how long ago was surgery, nor are there photos which would help make a more specific response,Best reassurance will come from a conversation and if needed a visit with your surgeon.All the best.

James McMahan, MD (retired) · Answer

Thank you for your question.  It is possible to rupture or tear out the sutures used to sew the muscles together during an abdominoplasty depending on what sutures were used, whether the muscles were 'double sewn' and how soon after surgery you are.  Avoiding strenuous activity after surgery is strongly advised for at least 6 weeks after a tummy tuck to prevent this from happening. Obviously, you have no control over a sneezing or coughing fit which is why I prefer to 'double sew' the muscles. If you are having pain and swelling, you should see your plastic surgeon as soon as possible.

Can I burst muscle plication stitches by sneezing? How easy can they burst? Thanks.

Answers (5)

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