Has my muscle repair failed? Help (Photo)

Question

Hey, I had my tummy tuck 7 weeks ago and for the past 3 weeks I’ve had an upper abdominal bulge and I’m so worried that my muscle repair has failed. I would be absolutely gutted! Can somebody help? I think photos may be upside down

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

Rupture of the muscle plication is actually pretty rare. Most of the time these bulges are either from swelling, intraabdominal fat, and diminished muscle tone of the abdominal wall due to the surgery.  The muscle function will improve with time and the swelling will decrease, but this typically takes at least 4 to 6 months.  When your surgeon agrees, you can start doing planks which will help you improve your muscle tone.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and series of photographs and I am sorry that your results have not been what you anticipated.  It is difficult without an in-person examination to determine what may be taking place.  Most commonly this is residual swelling from surgery which will spontaneously resolve but it would be important to voice your concerns to your surgeon to ensure that other issues are not taking place - discrete fluid collection, muscle laxity, or residual adipose tissue. Only with an exam can a proper diagnosis be obtained.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question and photo's.  It is too early to know the final results of a tummy tuck.  I recommend waiting 4-6 months post operatively to evaluate.

Rick Rosen, MD · Answer

It is difficult to tell based on your photos and without a proper examination. I would recommend you discuss this with your surgeon. Sometimes it may be post operative swelling, or some laxity in the muscle tone due to a patient trying not to stress that area. Your surgeon is the best one to evaluate this.

John Rosdeutscher, MD · Answer

I doubt it has failed. That area just below the sternum above your belly button is prone to long-lasting swelling & at 7 weeks you definitely still have some swelling. I would recommend selective compression of this area (Coban &/or ACE wrap in addition to your compression garment. Of course more than anything keep in close communication  with your surgeon's office. Best of luck & congratulations on your result!

Has my muscle repair failed? Help (Photo)

Answers (5)

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