What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck? (Photos)

Question

18 months post tummy tuck I still have consist hardness, limp causing discomfort in my abs. Prior to the surgery I had three consultation with different consultants. All of which stated my abs were fine and no repair was required. I personally couldnt feel any separation. Fast forward to after surgery, the pain was horrendous as apparently I had 4 cm gap so repair was done. Ever since ive had internal lump and if a tense it bulge out above navel. My consultant has given no explanation

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Intellectual345835 in Cheltenham, and thank you for your question regarding the consistent muscle hardness, abdominal tightness, internal lump, and bulge around your navel following your tummy tuck.

Thank you for sharing your history and photos. The symptoms you're experiencing are likely related to the rectus abdominis muscle repair that was performed during your tummy tuck. Typically, this muscle repair is done from the bottom of the sternum to the top of the pubic region, using permanent sutures in a two-layer closure. The muscle hardness and other symptoms you're describing may be due to the tension and the nature of the permanent sutures used during the repair.

One possible solution to alleviate these symptoms is the removal of the permanent sutures. However, this could result in the muscles becoming gapped again, leading to a distended abdomen, particularly noticeable when standing. This means your belly could protrude more on your profile view.

Deciding whether to remove the sutures depends on how intense and debilitating your discomfort truly is. Removing the sutures might relieve the tension, but it comes with the risk of an altered abdominal contour. I recommend consulting with your original plastic surgeon to discuss these options further and to carefully consider how much the pain is affecting your daily life. Keeping a detailed notebook to track the intensity of your abdominal pain can also help in making this decision.

Good luck, and I hope this helps answer your question regarding the persistent muscle hardness after your tummy tuck.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Intellectual345835,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the discomfort you are still having after your tummy tuck.  Based on your photos and description it is best you visit with another surgeon for a second opinion.  It is not a situation that can be diagnosed with photos.  Further testing such as an ultrasound or CT scan may be helpful in identifying the underlying issue.

Hampton A. Howell, MD · Answer

Hi.  Sorry to hear you're having issues after your surgery.  I would get another opinion from a reputable plastic surgeon as well as a general surgeon.  They might find a CT scan to be helpful depending on what they find on physical exam.
Good luck and take care, 
Dr. Howell

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

Consistent muscle hardness after a tummy tuck could be due to various factors, including inflammation, residual swelling, or muscle spasms. It’s important to consult with your surgeon to rule out any complications and discuss potential interventions or therapies to address the issue.

What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck? (Photos)

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Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

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What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck? (Photos)

Answers (8)

Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

Answer: What could be the cause to consistent muscle hardness post tummy tuck?

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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