How Will I Know if the Muscle Plication Fails?

Question

It has been three weeks since my surgery. I have been up and walking, and even had some sexual activity, albeit very gentle. Everything seemed fine Now after walking around all day yesterday, I have what I hope is swelling beneath my belly button, but further towards my flanks rather than underneath. How will I know if the plication has failed? (a stitch broek for example)

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

The only way to know for sure at this point is to obtain a radiologic study. See 3D CT in following link in video at bottom of page. However, it is best to inform your surgeon and have them evaluate you first.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	If you have noticed a change in your results after tummy tuck surgery it would behoove you to be examined by your surgeon. There are a variety of different reasons why you may have developed a &ldquo;swelling beneath the belly button".

	If you bend at the waist and touch your abdominal wall muscle an intact  muscle repair will feel firm (not bulge).

	Your plastic surgeon will be able to make the diagnosis based on examination.

	I hope this helps.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Adonis Narcissus

If you think you may have a problem, the best thing is to see your surgeon so that he can perform a physical examination of you.

Muscle repair / plication which is done at the time of a tummy tuck is held together by relatively fine sutures/stitches.  They are not strong enough to withstand strenuous physical activity therefore we instruct all our patients to wear the abdominal binder and to avoid strenuous physical activity for 6 weeks minimum.  This is how long it takes for the scars to form that will hold the muscles together.

Sincerely,

Martin Jugenburg, MD

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.

	See your surgeon.  The fullness you see may not be related to the plication. You might have some fluid that needs to be aspirated.

How Will I Know if the Muscle Plication Fails?

Answers (4)

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuck might be seroma.

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuck might be seroma.

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Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

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

How Will I Know if the Muscle Plication Fails?

Answers (4)

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuck might be seroma.

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuck might be seroma.

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

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