Concern about bubbles shown in US abdomen complete exam, advice?

Question

Hi, I recently sent over the images of a US Abdominal Complete exam taken 10/2024 to a surgeon in DR. He said he see bubbles above the belly button that show stitches can be loose. I’m 15 months post op. After working out during my 7 month recovery, a few months later I began to feel extra tight stiff with pain and discomfort. After taking multiple test MRI CT an-sonograms, several emergency rooms to get another opinion. With all of that still nothing was found wrong, as tho I made it all up smh

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Ingar. Thank you for your question regarding the bubbles seen in your recent abdominal ultrasound and the discomfort you’ve been experiencing.

It’s understandable to feel concerned when a doctor points out something unusual in your imaging, especially after all the effort you’ve put into getting multiple tests done. The bubbles seen above your belly button could indeed be indicative of loose stitches, especially since you’re 15 months post-op and have experienced discomfort, tightness, and stiffness after working out during your recovery.

When stitches used in muscle repair start to loosen, they can create small pockets or spaces where gas or air might accumulate, which could appear as bubbles on an ultrasound. This could also be contributing to your symptoms of pain and discomfort. However, it’s worth noting that bubbles on an ultrasound aren’t always a definitive sign of a problem. They could also be related to other factors, such as gas in the intestines or natural variations in tissue.

Given that you’ve already had multiple imaging tests that didn’t show any definitive issues, it might be beneficial to revisit your original surgeon or seek a second opinion from a board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in tummy tuck revisions. They can assess whether there’s a need for further intervention, such as tightening any loose stitches or addressing other potential causes of your symptoms.

Additionally, it’s crucial to communicate openly with your plastic surgeon about any concerns you have. They can provide more detailed insights based on your specific case and help you determine the best course of action.

I hope this helps to address your concerns.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Ingar,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's difficult to determine what may be causing your concerns without more information as well as an exam.  The best thing to do is visit with your surgeon who is most familiar with the details of your surgery and how you progressed through recovery.  If you are unable you may want to seek opinions from board certified plastic surgeons near you.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Xrays of the abdomen will not show "bubbles" from stitches. However, an examination can determine if the stitches became loose or if the repair is still strong.

Concern about bubbles shown in US abdomen complete exam, advice?

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Answer: Xrays

Answer: Xrays

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Concern about bubbles shown in US abdomen complete exam, advice?

Answers (4)

Answer: Xrays

Answer: Xrays

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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