Why do EDGES of incision hurt more, with "burning" type pain? (photo)

Question

Thanks in advance to all the wonderful PS for taking time....just wondering why the edges of my incision tend to hurt worse than the whole incision (including my abdomen). Not excruciating, just a burning....most of me doesn't hurt at all, except for those concentrated spots, and *even more when I lie down for bed*. My surgeon was awesome, I'm not worried, and didn't want to buzz the emergency line for such a curiosity question. Is it because of the skin fold?

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry and happy to hear you pleased with your surgeon and your result.  I think you have more pain at the edges because the nerves are probably intact, vs in the middle of the incision they get cut.  These cut nerves will start growing back over the next several months.  By the way, you should never hesitate to call your surgeon if you have a concern, most of us love to put our patient's minds at ease.  Good Luck.

Jeffrey G. Lind II, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question.  As others have mentioned, your are having more pain in those locations b/c the nerves are likely intact in that location vs being cut towards the middle of the incision.  You will experience all types of strange sensations as you heal (burning, sharp pains, itching, etc).  Congratulations on having your surgery.

Mark A. Schusterman, MD, FACS · Answer

I think you have more pain because these areas are closer to the intact nerves.  Toward the center of the incision the nerves have been cut.  Hope this helps.

Why do EDGES of incision hurt more, with "burning" type pain? (photo)

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Why do EDGES of incision hurt more, with "burning" type pain? (photo)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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