Is it possible that my tummy tuck internal sutures used for tightening the muscles to come undone after 5 yrs post op?

Hello,Thank you for your question. A physical exam with a plastic surgeon will allow them to determine if the muscles have separated in this area. As well, a visit to your primary care physician to discuss possibilities could be helpful.All the best 

It is possible that sutures loosening can lead to muscle laxity in the tummy. I would recommend you see your surgeon or another board certified plastic surgeon if your original surgeon is unavailable. A physical exam will help in figuring this out.

Thank you for your question.  It is unlikely that tearing of sutures 5 years later would cause your abdomen to protrude.  Instead something else is causing this, either from muscle weakness or pushing outwards from the inside.  Be sure to see a Board Certified PS for an evaluation and likely after this either a GI or General Surgeon.   

Hello and thank you for your question.  The
best advice you can receive is from an in-person consultation.  In order to give you accurate advice, an examination of your muscles is necessary. I recommend
that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified plastic surgeon who
can evaluate you in person.
Best wishes and good luck.
Richard G. Reish, M.D.  FACS
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Thanks for posting your question.  Usually within a few months after surgery the tissue is fully healed and the sutures aren't responsible for holding the muscles together.  Many surgeons use dissolving sutures so they aren't even present after several months.  If you are having discomfort I would recommend seeing your physician for a proper assessment.

The sutures used during your surgery are not longer  contributing to your abdominal wall integrity.  A host of other factors my account for your feelings.  A visit with your doctor is recommended.

After 6 months, the sutures will have no effect because the muscles should be well healed in their new position. If your belly is more protruding, possible causes are something inside your abdomen has increased in size and is pushing your muscles out or something has happened to your stomach muscles so they are not as tight as they once were.

If your lower belly protrusion was there immediately after your surgery, then either your abdomen was not sufficiently tightened, or you had fat inside your belly wall preventing a totally fat abdomen. You state the protrusion is getting worse however, and that could be from many conditions and requires an exam to be certain there are not other problems including gaining weight or a cyst development. Sutures use to repair and shorten your abdominal muscles would not be involved at this time as the repair is usually as good as it gets after 3 months time. Hope this helps you understand.