Straining (bowel movement) 2 weeks after muscle repair.

Constipation can occur with any patient who takes opiates/pain meds. In order to prophylax against this occurrence, patients usually take stool softeners and lots of fluids. But if the patient is already constipated, there are several ways to loosen the stool, orally and/or rectally. Fortunately it is highly unlikely that the patient has broken any of the plication sutures while straining to pass stool. 

Thanks for your question. Most surgeons use opioids analgesics, such as codeine and morphine derivatives, after tummy tuck surgery. Unfortunately one of the side effect of these drugs is constipation. As well as starting stool softeners, I also recommend to my patients to eat plenty of fruit and vegetables, keep well hydrated, and if you can come of the opioid pain killers by using non-opioid analgesics instead then this will definitely help. It would be most unlikely that you have undone your muscle repair by straining, but contact your plastic surgeon for a review.

Hi,

Thanks for your question. Constipation after a tummy tuck is fairly common, especially if you are still taking pain medications. Be sure that you are on a stool softener each day, such as Senna-S or docusate. Also, be sure to follow-up with your surgeon so he/she can ensure there are no issues with your surgery. It would be very unusual to have torn anything while straining. 

Best wishes,

Dr. Blagg

Austin, TX

Dear MrsRiddles,



It is very important you not allow yourself to get constipated and strain. You should be on stool softeners and use of a laxative if necessary. Contact your surgeon for any specific protocols they recommend. You will need to be examined as well to make sure you did not pull the stitches through the abdominal muscles. It is particularly important to guard them six to eight weeks after surgery.





I hope this has been helpful.





Robert D. Wilcox, MD

Thank you for the question. Constipation or straining during a bowel movement is not uncommon after a tummy tuck.  There are several reasons for this: dehydration, reduced consumption of food, lack of physical activity, and medications that slow your bowels down. It is highly unlikely that a straining during a bowel movement will undo the muscle tightening stitches placed during your tummy tuck. That being said, most doctors would advice you against straining too much. Instead, you can try using gentle stool softeners, do more walking, and drink plenty of fluids. 

Remember than an in-person exam with a board-certified plastic surgeon would be the best way to assess your needs and guarantee a reliable medical advice. Best of luck! Dr. Michael Omidi.