Is it normal to have severe gas pains after tummy tuck?

Question

I am 14 days post op tummy tuck with muscle repair. For the last 24hrs I have been experiencing shooting sharp gas pains from my back to my side and stomach. The pains have been so intense that it has made my muscle repair site spasm. I used Gas Ex and it gave me little relief but the slight sharp pain never went away. I also get some relief when I pass gas but it constantly comes back. I've been eating healthy since my surgery with the exception of the day before this pain started.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well. 
These symptom is common after an abdominoplasty. If the pain persists after one week, I suggest you to follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

Constipation and therefore gas pains is common after abdominoplasty. The narcotics given during and after surgery cause the bowels to stop/slow for a week or two after surgery. The longer you use the pain meds, the longer this situation lasts. If you continue having issues for more than a week or two after stopping your precription pain meds you should be seen to get this evaluated. It may be unrelated.

Is it normal to have severe gas pains after tummy tuck?

Answers (2)