What could’ve went wrong with my tummy tuck?

Question

I had a tummy tuck with mr 1/26/23 . For 8 months I been experiencing pain extra stiffness and tightness. My mobility and range of motion has been restricted from many things. I started working out in my 5 month of recovery. I’m thinking I did too much and pulled a muscle or separated some stitches. Can you please share as a professional board certified surgeon in plasti what you think about this? Thank you so much!

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

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Ingar. Thank you for your question regarding the pain, stiffness, and tightness you’ve been experiencing after your tummy tuck with muscle repair.

It’s not uncommon to have some degree of discomfort, stiffness, and tightness after a tummy tuck, especially with muscle repair. However, the fact that these symptoms have persisted for 8 months and are impacting your mobility and range of motion could indicate a few potential issues.

One possibility is that you may have done too much physical activity too soon, leading to strain on the muscle repair or even a partial separation of the stitches. Starting workouts at the 5-month mark is generally safe, but if the exercises were too intense or involved significant strain on the core muscles, it could have compromised the repair.

Another possibility is that you may be experiencing internal scar tissue, known as adhesions, which can lead to tightness and restricted movement. This is more common in individuals who are very active or who have had a significant amount of work done during their surgery.

Lastly, nerve involvement or inflammation could be contributing to the ongoing pain and stiffness. Nerve-related pain can sometimes mimic muscular pain and can persist long after the initial healing period.

I recommend consulting with your plastic surgeon for a thorough evaluation. They may suggest imaging studies to assess the muscle repair and check for any complications. Depending on the findings, treatment options could range from physical therapy to surgical revision.

Good luck, and I hope you find relief soon.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you've had since your tummy tuck.  It is not uncommon to feel some tightness or stiffness after a tummy tuck.  This improves gradually over time as you return to your normal activities.  It is important after surgery to closely follow your surgeon's instructions with regard to activity, wearing compression, etc.  Returning to exercise should be done gradually once cleared by your surgeon.  I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation and discussion of your concerns.

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