I am 4 months past my tummy tuck and wonder if I should be concerned about changed bowel movements?

Question

I am 4 months past my tummy tuck. Happy with the way I look. But my concern is my bowel movements. My stools are much smaller (Like a french fry where before they were fat hotdogs!) than before my tummy tuck. Also, I go days without a bowel movement and then have to use either a stool softener or a laxative. Before my tummy tuck I had a bowel movement every day. Should I be concerned?

John Nguyen, MD, FACS · Answer

Pain medications can slow the movement of the bowels.  However, at this stage in your recovery, I don't suspect you are still taking pain medications.  I would suggest an evaluation with a gastroenterologist or start with your primary care doctor.  Good luck and be safe.John T. Nguyen, MD, FACS, FICSDouble Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

M. Scott Haydon, MD · Answer

Sorry for your trouble. After a TT, the abdominal wall is more rigid. There is perhaps less distension and expansion in your intestines that might have led to diminished peristalsis for some reason. I have not heard of this in the past however and you should have a more formal work up by your primary care physician.

Joshua Lampert, MD, FACS · Answer

Oral narcotics, like percocet and Vicodin, can cause significant constipation.  Tightened abdominal musculature, dehydration and decreased ambulation can further aggravate your symptoms. Constipation can not only be uncomfortable postop, but also dangerous.  Straining can lead to blood pressure swings and muscle tension, which can cause complications. I encourage preemptive and daily laxative use during the post operative period.It is important to see a board certified plastic surgeon in order to maximize safety, comfort, and results.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

because they don't do anything to alter what is INSIDE your belly or the anal area.  Your bowel changes suggest something could be occurring inside your bowels and you do need to see your primary care physician about it and possibly have an evaluation by a gastroenterologist.

Robert Whitfield, MD · Answer

You should not have significant bowel habit changes after you have discontinued narcotics and resumed your normal diet and activity patterns.  You should have an evaluation.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

See your Primary Care Physician as soon as possible.  Your bowel issue has nothing to do with your Tummy Tuck surgery.

I am 4 months past my tummy tuck and wonder if I should be concerned about changed bowel movements?

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