Why did my 6-pack disappear after a tummy tuck?

I understand your feelings of disappointment and fear regarding the loss of your 6-pack, but you're still in a rather early phase of the post-op period. Swelling in the abdomen can take several months to fully resolve, and it's not uncommon at all to have your muscles obscured for the time being. If you had a 6-pack before surgery, an abdominoplasty is not likely to erase it — only temporarily cover it up. Stay patient, and I think you'll enjoy your results once the initial healing process is over.

Your 6-pack did not disappear. Instead it was only hidden by the persistent swelling of your abdominal region due to the abdominoplasty. Swelling may persist for up to 6 months, but it will eventually subside and your 6-pack will already be visible by then.

I suspect that persistent postoperative swelling is contributing to the inability to visualize your 6 pack. Following abdominoplasty, the ability for the skin and soft tissue to drain extra fluid from swelling are altered. As the soft tissue heals; however, this swelling will dissipate. A tummy tuck may correct separation between the rectus muscles, but it should not cause the muscles to lose mass. In time, as the swelling subsides and you resume your exercise routine/activity levels, your 6 pack should return. Best of luck!
Kind regards,
Steven J. Montante, MD