Burning at incision site 3 days post op?

Question

I had a tummy tuck, lipo, and breasts August done a few days ago. The pain is getting more bearable as each day progresses, but I have noticed a burning sensation along the left side of my tummy tuck incision when I get up and move around. The burning only lasts a few minutes, but it is intense. Is this normal?

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

Dear Rockyplace99In the early period after an abdominoplasty, having unusual sensations occurs often. Just having the burning sensation you describe is not worrisome. If it become recurring or any changes occur with th swelling of your abdomen, see you surgeon quickly. You most likely have a followup visit early this week. Show him or her the area and make sure all is well.

Jeff Angobaldo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your questions.  After a tummy tuck and liposuction, you may feel different nerve sensations which are normal.  An examination would be needed to answer your question.  Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It may take several months for a patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to settle.

These can be improved with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma. Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow with products such as Embrace.  On occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.If you feel that the burning sensation is not decreasing as time continues it would be best to visit your surgeon in person to have the areas of incision evaluated and make sure that healing is progressing properly. Best of luck!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on your surgery.  Because of the stretch that is placed on your abdominal tissues, it is not uncommon for the nerves within the skin to become irritated.  Once a nerve is irritated it can result in differing sensations to the tissues including a burning or electrical sensation.  This tends to improve with time as your swelling resolves and skin relaxes but may take 6 months or longer.  Hang in there and inform your surgeon who can follow you along closely to ensure your steady improvement.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Director-Beverly Hills Breast and Body Institute

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Burning at incision site 3 days post op?

Answers (6)

Answer: Burning at incision site 3 days PostOp

Answer: Burning at incision site 3 days PostOp

Answer: Mommy Makeover /Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/Tummy Tuck/Liposuction/BBL

Answer: Mommy Makeover /Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/Tummy Tuck/Liposuction/BBL

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Burning at incision site 3 days post op?

Answers (6)

Answer: Burning at incision site 3 days PostOp

Answer: Burning at incision site 3 days PostOp

Answer: Mommy Makeover /Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/Tummy Tuck/Liposuction/BBL

Answer: Mommy Makeover /Breast Augmentation/Breast Implants/Anatomic Gummy Bear Implants/Tummy Tuck/Liposuction/BBL

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mommy Makeover

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.