Is it normal after a tummy tuck to be short of breath when you try to walk?

Question

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

Some shortness of breath is not uncommon following a surgery such as tummy tuck.  Bedrest, immobility, pain meds, etc. can attribute to some changes in activity tolerance.  However, severe shortness of breath coupled with lower leg pain could be a sign of serious concern such as a blood clot.  Best to let your plastic surgeon evaluate to be sure.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Although shortness of breath may be “normal” after tummy tuck surgery, it may also be a sign of a postoperative complication (such as pneumonia or pulmonary embolism). Therefore, pulmonary concerns should be reported to your plastic surgeon who will be your best resource.  Best wishes.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

you should let your surgeon know... because if its constant and you find yourself gasping for air (but you should be in an ER by now) it could be from clots forming in your legs and going to your lungs.  If its brief and following exertion that always goes away with rest, its probably nothing and reflects your inability to breathe with your tummy.  Still, when having breathing issues, always best to check with your surgeon to make sure its 'nothing'.

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

A specific complaint of shortness of breath after a tummy tuck when all other factors are recovering nicely needs to be thoroughly investigated by her plastic surgeon.  The concerns are possible pneumonia or worse blood clots in the legs which can migrate to the lungs.  Most often this is not the case in your shortness of breath the simply readjusting to your surgery.However is essential that you see her plastic surgeon for an examination right away.

Is it normal after a tummy tuck to be short of breath when you try to walk?

Answers (4)

Answer: Please see your plastic surgeon for shortness of breath after tummy tuck.

Answer: Please see your plastic surgeon for shortness of breath after tummy tuck.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Is it normal after a tummy tuck to be short of breath when you try to walk?

Answers (4)

Answer: Please see your plastic surgeon for shortness of breath after tummy tuck.

Answer: Please see your plastic surgeon for shortness of breath after tummy tuck.

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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.