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

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

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

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.