Can I Take Anything for Bowel Movement After Tummy Tuck?

Narcotics (pain meds) usually decrease the frequency of bowel movements. There are several remedies to stimulate a bowel movement but stool should be soft so that you will not strain. For a stimulant Dulcolax can be used and for the softner Colace can be used. Consult with your surgeon. 

Dr. ES

tummy tuck like many surgeries can cause constipation due to use of narcotics. Therefore, I recommend my patients to use stool softeners and drink much liquids after surgery. Early ambulation is also very helpful.

Hello,

I recommend that my patients purchase an over the counter stool softener such as Colace as well as a soft laxative such as Dulcolax or Senokot-S to start taking right after surgery. Drink plenty of water and ween yourself off the narcotic pain medication as quickly as you can. If you are still having trouble having a bowel movement, MiraLAX usually helps.

 

There are many things you can take. You can use any over the counter stool softener. Miralax, Senokot-S, there are many. Drink plenty of water and stop your narcotic pain medication as soon as possible. You can try enemas or suppositories if needed. Talk to your surgeon.

The best treatment for constipation after surgery is to ambulate frequently, utilize a stool softener, and wean off of the pain medication as quickly/safely as possible.   Also staying well hydrated is of good benefit.

Yes, you should take something, either over-the -counter or prescribed, for constipation, or else you may strain, which increases your intraabdominal pressure and cause popping of your muscle plication sutures.  Hope this helps.

First of all thank you for the question.  I normally have my patients start taking Senokot S after surgery to help produce a bowel movement. Between the narcotics and General Anesthesia  it can constipate you.  I would recommend you review your post op information that you have received from your surgeon.  As always you should follow up with your Plastic Surgeon.  Best of Luck!

There are a number of remedies. The main causative factor is narcotic pain meds. Best advice should come from your own surgeon. You may already have advice in your take home instructions. All the best. 

An abdominoplasty causes many effects on the body, especially in relation to bowel motility. The surgery itself can cause decreased motility due to surgical manipulation in and around the abdominal contents causing ileus, or sleepy bowels.The midline of the abdomen is often tightened with corseting stitches, an this can cause pain inhibition when straining at stool. The intraoperative drugs and narcotic medicines after surgery will have a significant effect on the bowel motility. Patients can also become dehydrated during surgery, causing a harder stool.

The answer to the question is to be proactive and begin a bowel regimen preop. I tell my patients to pre-hydrate and take an enema the night before surgery. Over the counter stool softeners, propellants, and a high fiber diet can be started preop as well. With proper preparation, your experience will be smooth sailing.