Tightness 16 months after TT. Is this normal?

Question

I had a TT with muscle repair in Nov 21 and i still have a LOT of tightness in my abdominal area. And some days are worse than others. It seriously feels like a girdle under my skin 24 hours a day. OG Dr says give it more time. Is this normal?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear threefoldnature,

Thanks for your question. It's not uncommon to feel some degree of tightness in the abdominal area after a tummy tuck, particularly if the procedure included muscle repair. This sensation is often due to the healing and remodeling of the tissues after surgery. By 16 months, most of this tightness should have gradually eased. However, everyone's body heals at a different pace, and in some cases, it may take longer.

If you're experiencing severe or worsening tightness, it's important to have this evaluated by your surgeon or another board-certified plastic surgeon if necessary. While your original surgeon suggests waiting a bit longer, which may be entirely reasonable, it's also important to rule out any complications such as seromas, hematomas, or hypertrophic scarring that might be contributing to your discomfort. Keep communication open with your surgeon, and don't hesitate to get a second opinion if you're concerned.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about recovery from tummy tuck. For specific questions like this and about your recovery in general, it is best to speak directly with your doctor or doctor’s representative – such as his or her nurse, or the physician on call for the practice. You will likely get many differing opinions from members of the RealSelf Community, but they have not personally seen or examined you. Nobody should know you or your unique set of circumstances better than your doctor. If you feel you are not being listened to or you are doubting your doctor’s recommendations, then it is certainly within your rights to seek a second opinion and get the advice from another board certified physician. This should be done through an in-person consultation with a thorough evaluation, including a review of your history, review of all prior treatment and with a physical examination. Obviously, if you think that you are having a medical emergency or other serious problem, you should call 911 and/or go to your nearest emergency room. Best Wishes

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You are over a year post op and fully healed.  If you are still experiencing excessive tightness of your abdomen you may want to visit with a physical therapist for stretching exercises to help increase your flexibility and comfort.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear threefoldnature,
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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It takes up to a year to heal, so your tightness may yet improve. I would suggest doing some gentile stretching and massages. If you have some excess weight, loosing this will be very helpful.

Tightness 16 months after TT. Is this normal?

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Answer: Tightness 16 months after TT

Answer: Tightness 16 months after TT

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Tightness 16 months after TT. Is this normal?

Answers (7)

Answer: Tightness 16 months after TT

Answer: Tightness 16 months after TT

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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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.