Still numb/sensitive 1 year after tummy tuck. Is this normal?

Question

I'm a year out of surgery from having a tummy tuck, my stomach still feels a little numb/sensitive is this normal?

Paul M. Parker, MD, FACS · Answer

Some degree of numbness is common at one year after a tummy tuck. The sensitivity you describe should be resolved by this point. I would discuss that with your operating surgeon in order to get their evaluation and opinion.

Michael J. Denk, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, the numbness is normal.  Most patients do experience numbness between their umbilicus and their scar for at least one year, if not permanently. In my  experience the numbness usually stops bothering patients after about 2-3 years. The abdominal skin nor the scar should  be sensitive at this point.  I would speak to your surgeon. There may be a number of things he/she might recommend; including,  scar massage, steroid injections,  Scarguard* or even a minor surgical revision.

Claire S. Duggal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question -- it is normal to have varying degrees of numbness or hypersensitivity during the healing process from a tummy tuck.  This numbness can persist, especially if it is around your scar.  I would discuss with your surgeon some options if it is bothering you.  Best of luck in your long-term recovery!

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear, Thank you for your post. In a tummy tuck or abdominoplasty surgery, the tissue above the abdominal muscles is lifted off of the muscles from the lower scar to the ribs in a full tummy tuck. The superficial nerves that travel through the muscle to the skin are cut in order to do this. This is what causes the numbness afterward. The numbness usually extends in the entire area that was lifted up. On occasion, a superficial nerve to the thigh could be pulled causing numbness in this area as well.  Numbness may take months to years to go away, and the last place to go away is the area right above the incision centrally, and sometimes right below the belly button. It may take up to 2 years to get to baseline sensation. sometimes, certain areas never feel totally normal, especially the area right above the incision centrally. But I recommend to see your doctor for more information. Good luck :)

John A. Perrotti, MD · Answer

Numbness and sensitivity may persist up until one year or even longer. This may continue to improve with time. The sensitivity may be from sensation returning or may be from maturation of the scars. If you are concerned, visit your surgeon.

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

It is, in fact, normal to have permanent numbness in the area of skin between your belly button and the incision.  This is because to nerves enervating your skin are cut in this lower area as part of the skin removal. This is also similar after C-sections.  The hypersensitivity can be from your scar at times and if real bothersome, you might dress the issue with your surgeon, as there are some things you can do depending on his findings on physical exam.

Still numb/sensitive 1 year after tummy tuck. Is this normal?

Answers (6)

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