Signs of too much skin removal after Tummy Tuck? (Photos)

Question

I'm 6 weeks post op from Tummy Tuck. I am unable to stand up straight and fear that I won't be able too. It hurts when I try in my upper abdomen. I plan on seeing my PS next week but wanted some feedback. What are signs that too much skin was removed?

Matthew H. Steele, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos.  From what I can see, you look very nice.  I suspect that if your surgeon took too much skin, you would have had a wound separation at the middle of your incision with wound healing problems.  You probably still have some swelling and tightness due to the muscle repair.  Best to check with your surgeon in-person for specifics.  Good luck.

Christine Rodgers, MD · Answer

Hi HTMOM,  I think that you look very nice! It is not uncommon to still have some pain in the abdominal area ,even after 6 weeks. Please discuss with your plastic surgeon what you can do to start moving a little bit more.Best,Dr. Christine Rodgers

Stefan Mark Szczerba, MD · Answer

From your photos, things look ok!  The pain in the upper abdomen while trying to stand straight is usually from plication of the abdominal muscles together.  Check with your surgeon what stitches he or she uses to see when you should expect things to loosen up.  When too much skin is removed, the scar is high and incision will start to pull apart exposing sutures etc.  Best Wishes!!!

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photos. You look great! The difficulty you're describing is common. It will take time for everything to relax (6-8 weeks) and as you start doing more stretching it will help. At this point you shouldn't have any restrictions but check with your surgeon. If too much skin is removed, the incision will have too much tension on it and there will be widening of the scar and potential separation. Best of Luck!

Dean Trotter, MBBS, FRACS · Answer

Relax, your pictures suggest that you have a really nice result.  It can sometimes take several weeks before you feel confident enough to stand up straight after a tummy tuck, especially if you had a muscle repair.  Most likely the pain you have will settle with more time as you gain confidence and start to get back to all your usual activities.  I advise patients that it often takes around 3 months to feel like they are fully recovered from a tummy tuck or body lift procedure.It is absolutely a good idea for you to see your PS next week too for further re-assurance.Kind regards,Dean

Signs of too much skin removal after Tummy Tuck? (Photos)

Answers (5)