Is this bulge and gap going to affect my tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

Hi I am 4 weeks post op. I felt a popping and had a bugle under my best bone last week saw nurses sent away saying nothing wrong. This week I have felt more popping and pain as got sickness bug and Bugle is still there scar is now bleeding. Emailed & called no response. Done lying flat with knees bent feet flat and pillow in curve of back lifted my shoulders and I can feel a 2 finger gap at the top of my abdomen and then it is closed so I would say it is 3 stitches. Shooting pains unable to drive due to pain. Resting for day like this and getting worse and burning at the top of abdomen. Is this going to affect tt majorly?

Ghassan Mehio, MD · Answer

Your description of popping sensation,gap, and bulge at the top of your tummy may be because the sutures that were used to bring you 6 pack muscle (Rectus abdominis) together failed. Make sure you are evaluated by your surgeon.

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

thank you for your questions and photos. I am not entirely sure what is happening with your recovery. It sounds like there are two areas of concern, the top of your abdomen and the scar at the bottom. There is no doubt that you must be seen by your doctor. Nothing but an in-person evaluation can answer the questions. Your surgeon is the best to address your needs as they are the one who performed your operation. Please be persistent and good luck.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  I would recommend being seen by your surgeon.  Without seeing you in person it's hard to determine whats going on.  Best of luck to you.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Kaz1064,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. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The symptoms that you are describing are not typical at 4 weeks post op.  I encourage you to contact your surgeon for an evaluation.  He/She is most familiar with the details of your surgery and needs to assess what is occurring.

Juan A. Brou, MD · Answer

Hi Kaz1064, I'm sorry you are having problems with your TT.  By your description it sounds like some sutures came loose in the epigastrium (under breast bone) and a bulge resulted.  Also your incisions started bleeding.  This is very unusual 4 weeks after surgery.  I agree with the other reviewers that you need to be evaluated in person by your surgeon who knows what he/she did and will be able to trouble shoot your problem better than anybody.  It is very hard to venture a diagnosis of what's happening to you and your photos don't help much.  Good luck to you, I hope your pain and bulge go away.

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