Swelling or muscle tightening ruptured after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I'm 21 days post-op.I made 2 strong movements accidentally 6 days after my surgery and sneezed sometimes.Since the 18th day post-op after my Lymfedranaige I don't feel my muscles that tight anymore and it's more comfortable to laugh.Is it possible that I ruptured my muscle tightening? I don't feel pain,I do small things at home and I'm back to work.Since a day ago is my lower belly extremely swollen.Is it normal? Or is it a bulge? How can I tell if I ruptured my muscle repair?

Pejman Aflaki, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. It takes at least 3-6 months to see the final results of tummy tuck. Your repair is probably ok. As time goes by and with the healing process, muscle repair does not feel as tight anymore. Please have your plastic surgeon evaluate. Best of luck!

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

Muscles repaired do not easily rupture and the possibility is low. What you see may just be swelling which is commonly experienced after a surgery. This will subside on its own as you recover. It takes about 6 months to see your final results. However, if you feel unassured, then see your surgeon for an evaluation.

Eric Fynn-Thompson, MD · Answer

It would be unlikely that you have disrupted the muscle repair but more likely gravity dependent swelling or possibly a small collection of fluid called a seroma. I would recommend that you have your plastic surgeon evaluate the area to see if any drainage is necessary. It is normal for the pain from the tightness of the muscle repair to improve and to be more comfortable as that is part of the healing process. Good luck.

Swelling or muscle tightening ruptured after tummy tuck? (Photo)

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Swelling or muscle tightening ruptured after tummy tuck? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.