Knot Under Ribcage Post-Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift

Question

I recently had a full Tummy Tuck, and I also had a mastopexy with augmentation done at the same time, due to 125lb weight loss. Now, I have a knot directly under my ribcage, to the left of the belly button. It hurts when I get up or cough. I have had hernias (groin ) in the past and it feels similar. Could it be another hernia related to the Tummy Tuck? I'm 12 days post-op from the Tummy Tuck. What can I do about this?

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi- there are many possibilities to explain what you feel (listed below by my colleague). It is also possible that you are feeling the sutures he used to tighten your muscles- in patients who have lost a lot of weight, the skin is often thin and it is easier to feel these through it.
In either case, you need peace of mind that you don't have a problem, and that can only be given by your surgeon after an examination of the area- give 'em a call.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello cpdmom3, thank you for your question regarding the knot under your ribcage post-tummy tuck and breast lift. Given your history and recent surgery, it's understandable to be concerned about new and unusual sensations.

At 12 days post-op, experiencing some discomfort and noticing changes in your body is not uncommon. The knot you describe could be due to several factors. Firstly, post-surgical swelling and fluid accumulation are common after major surgeries like a tummy tuck and mastopexy with augmentation. This could manifest as a knot or lump under your ribcage. Additionally, sometimes blood (hematoma) or fluid (seroma) can accumulate under the skin, leading to a palpable lump. These usually resolve on their own but sometimes require drainage.

The healing process involves the formation of scar tissue, which can feel like a knot under the skin. This can sometimes cause discomfort, especially with movement or coughing. Given your past history with hernias, it is possible, though less likely, that you could have developed another hernia. However, it is essential to differentiate between post-surgical healing and a hernia, which would require a physical examination by your surgeon.

To address this issue, it is crucial to have your plastic surgeon evaluate the knot to determine its cause and appropriate treatment. They might recommend imaging studies like an ultrasound or CT scan if a hernia is suspected. In the meantime, avoid activities that may strain your abdomen, including heavy lifting and vigorous exercise, until you have been evaluated. Over-the-counter pain relievers may help with discomfort, but ensure you discuss this with your surgeon first.

Your surgeon will provide the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan based on a physical examination and your medical history. It's essential to follow their advice and attend all follow-up appointments to ensure proper healing and address any concerns promptly.

Good luck, and I hope this helps address your concerns regarding the knot under your ribcage.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This could be a hernia, it could be a pulled stitch, it could be a resolving neuropraxia, it could be a hematoma/seroma, etc.
There are multiple diffferent conditions which could explain the finding you describe but it is difficult to say without an examination.
Your best route, is to seek evaluation by your treating physician/surgeon to perform a focused examination knowing your unique anatomy.

David Shafer, MD, FACS · Answer

Cpdmom3,
There are many causes to explain the symptoms you are describing, including a seroma (fluid collection), hematoma (blood collection), inadequate fat excision or liposuction (if you had this at the time of our surgery).  It would be unusual to have a hernia at the location that you are describing.  The best advice is for you to talk with the surgeon who did your surgery, since he or she know what surgery was done.
I hope this is helpful.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

A mommy makeover which consists of a tummy tuck and breast contouring surgery is becoming more and more popular. If you notice a hard mass by your rib cage, the cause is dependent on the surgical techniques that were performed. This mass may be a collection of suture and overlying scar tissue or could be a small collection of fluid. Your best bet is to return to your surgeon and show them the bump. This will help them determine whether it is a mass or fluid that needs to be removed or whether it is your body's reaction to suture or other materials that were used during surgery.

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Knot Under Ribcage Post-Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift

Answers (6)

Answer: Talk to your surgeon

Answer: Talk to your surgeon

Answer: Hard mass after tummy tuck and breast lift

Answer: Hard mass after tummy tuck and breast lift

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Knot Under Ribcage Post-Tummy Tuck and Breast Lift

Answers (6)

Answer: Talk to your surgeon

Answer: Talk to your surgeon

Answer: Hard mass after tummy tuck and breast lift

Answer: Hard mass after tummy tuck and breast lift

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.