Full tummy tuck 1 year post op, gastrointestinal pains (Photo)

Question

Hi, I had my surgery in January 2023 I have noticed a bulging and protruding lower abdomen started forming at around month 10.. also gastrointestinal can't digest food the way I used to. Having stomach pains and cramps. No weight gain. But lots of swelling in my legs. My hands and legs fall asleep fast. I consistently feel like puking. My side of my abdomen is very hard and just popping outwards. I was happy months 5/6. My stomach had abs and no loose skin. I had drainless surgery. Please help!

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

Your symptoms are not uncommon. You should check if you’ve gained weight. Weight gain accumulated more fat in the inside of the abdomen and can cause symptoms like yours

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about gastrointestinal pains one year after your tummy tuck. The symptoms you describe, such as swelling, cramping, bloating, and general discomfort, suggest a possible issue with your gastrointestinal system, potentially involving your large and small intestines. These symptoms are unlikely to be directly related to your tummy tuck procedure.
It's crucial that you consult with a gastroenterologist for a thorough evaluation. They might recommend blood tests, X-rays, and possibly an upper and lower endoscopy, which involve using a camera to examine your stomach and intestines visually. This comprehensive approach will help to diagnose the cause of your symptoms accurately.
The abdominal swelling and distension you mention are more likely due to visceral fat (fat surrounding your internal organs) than to subcutaneous fat (fat beneath the skin). Since you haven't gained weight, it's possible that the abdominal distention is primarily due to bloating. Additionally, the numbness in your hands and legs could be related to swelling or another underlying condition.
It's important to address these issues with a gastroenterologist as soon as possible. They can help determine whether your symptoms are related to the gallbladder, pancreas, endocrine system, or another cause.
In summary, while your symptoms are not typically associated with a tummy tuck, a detailed medical assessment is necessary to identify the root cause and appropriate treatment.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Sincere610220,
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 issues you are having.  There are several potential issues leading to your symptoms.  A visit to a GI specialist is warranted to determine any underlying causes. A visit to your surgeon is needed to evaluate your symptoms.  It could be a failed muscle repair, a seroma, or potentially a build up of visceral fat to name a few possibilities.

Joshua T Halka, MD · Answer

Hello,
If you liked your results months ago and this developed this late after surgery, it is unlikely to be surgically related, but since nothing is possible, you should get an ultrasound to evaluate for a seroma in that region, especially since you had a Drainless tummy tuck.
The other issue is that tummy tucks should not cause any GI issues, especially that far out. A physician besides your surgeon should evaluate you for causes of your GI issues, and may suggest endoscopy or further imaging. I hope you feel better soon, hope this helps.

Full tummy tuck 1 year post op, gastrointestinal pains (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: GI pains

Answer: GI pains

Answer: It sounds like you should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon and another physician should evaluate your GI complaints

Answer: It sounds like you should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon and another physician should evaluate your GI complaints

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Full tummy tuck 1 year post op, gastrointestinal pains (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: GI pains

Answer: GI pains

Answer: It sounds like you should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon and another physician should evaluate your GI complaints

Answer: It sounds like you should be evaluated by your plastic surgeon and another physician should evaluate your GI complaints

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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