What medical test can be done to find out if I tore my muscle repair?

Question

Hello. I had a tummy tuck 3 months ago in another country and for about a month I feel like there is something unstable in my upper stomach area. I have seen that also about a month I have a small bulge between my rib cage. I’d like to know what medical tests I can do to find out if I tore the muscle repair. Thank you in advance for the answers.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an examination and discussion of your concerns.  If a failed muscle repair is suspected an MRI may be ordered by your surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Phenomenal892834,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

You could start with an ultrasound, but it will be limited. If needed, then a CAT scan or even a MRI. I would first be examined by a plastic surgeon to see if the examination can tell how the muscle is doing.  As you are learning, it is always best to do your surgery in the area where you live for follow up care.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

I continue to post on real self encouraging people to not travel long distances for elective surgical procedures. Patient do not seem to appreciate the importance of having in person consultations, the number of people who have serious issues or questions after surgery, the complications actually do happen or the number of people who will end up needing revisions.

An MRI will show the tissues well of your abdominal wall but then what?
Sing the relationship an anatomy among the tissue planes doesn’t fix your problem and an MRI isn’t going to see a broken suture which is probably highly unlikely.

Your surgeon is responsible for the outcome of your procedure and you are responsible for choosing that surgeon.

If you want a proper second opinion then you should schedule an in person second opinion consultation with another plastic surgeon. To prepare for a second opinion consultation patients should Bring proper before and after pictures and a copy of your operative report.

At least in the United States and those are part of your medical record which you have a legal right to. I would imagine that’s probably true in most countries.

Are contour irregularities of the abdominal wall after a tummy tuck are rarely due to sutures that break.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

What medical test can be done to find out if I tore my muscle repair?

Answers (4)