I have nausea 2 weeks after extended tummy tuck etc. Could this be an infection, or an allergic reaction to meds?

Question

I had an extended tummy tuck and Lipo of hips and outer thighs and a fat graft in buttocks on 7/27/15. My recovery was going fine until Friday I began to feel nauseous. My nausea has continued to worsen over the past few days and now I can't take a sip of water without feeling like I may throw up. I am taking Percocet for pain and vitamins in the morning and evening, these also make me feel ill. I also am taking arnica for bruising and swelling. I need to know if my nausea is a sign of infection?

Clark Schierle, MD, PhD, FACS · Answer

The nausea is most likely a side effect of your pain medication. Hang in there! As long as the pain, swelling and scars are improving week to week, however slowly, there is still hope for the final outcome. Ask you plastic surgeon if there are any compression garments, stretches or massaging exercises that can help speed your recovery.

Leila Kasrai, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Signs of infection are usually redness, excessive warmth and possibly pus discharge in the affected area. Nausea is most likely caused by the medications you’re on. I suggest you ask your surgeon about this. An alternative pain medication may be prescribed.

Gregory Pisarski, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations on your surgery and new body! I am sorry the nausea is hampering your recovery. Nausea is usually caused by you pain medicine or nutritional supplements in the early post op period. Infection is usually manifest by pain ,redness or drainage from the operative sites, as well as fever ,chills and possibly nausea. Check with your surgeon to make sure  there is no signs of infection at the operative sites and possibly change your pain reliever.Best wishes.

Leo Lapuerta, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with your plastic surgeon. The pain medications could be the cause for the nausea and vomiting, not likely for infection.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, if you are still taking medications and naturopathic medications that are new to you system, any of these could potentially be causing nausea.  Your question about other potential causes (like infection) is valid but you would need a proper assessment to rule out other concerning causes of your nausea.

I have nausea 2 weeks after extended tummy tuck etc. Could this be an infection, or an allergic reaction to meds?

Answers (10)