Still cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Question

Will i ever get full mobility back? No lipo, only vertical sutures on lower abdomen. I still wanted ab separation as I compete in body building. 200g skin removed. Still very tight, not the muscle but the skin. I can't even fully stretch otherwise I can feel my skin so tight that it restrains me from fully doing so. Will this ever be normal?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, and thank you for your question regarding mobility and tightness following your tummy tuck. Congratulations on maintaining a bodybuilding lifestyle and for seeking clarity about your concerns.

It is not uncommon to experience tightness and a restricted range of motion in the abdomen up to a year after a tummy tuck, particularly if only a small amount of skin was removed and the abdominal wall was not addressed. Tight skin tension can occasionally limit movement, especially in activities that require extensive stretching, such as arching your back.

Since you didn’t have muscle repair and your concern is primarily skin tightness, it’s likely that the tension created during the procedure hasn’t fully adapted to your body’s movements. Over time, the skin and tissues should continue to relax as part of the natural healing process, which may improve mobility. However, this process can take up to 18–24 months, depending on individual healing factors such as skin elasticity, collagen production, and scar maturation.

In the meantime, consider incorporating gentle stretching exercises or physical therapy into your routine to gradually increase mobility. A physical therapist experienced in post-surgical rehabilitation can design a program to target your specific limitations safely.

If the tightness persists beyond two years or significantly interferes with your activities, you may want to consult your plastic surgeon. A minor revision, such as releasing the scar or adjusting the skin tension, could be discussed if it aligns with your goals and lifestyle needs.

I hope this helps address your concerns and provides some optimism for regaining full mobility over time. Best of luck in your bodybuilding endeavors and continued recovery!

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Robert M. Wald, Jr., MD · Answer

Time is the key to healing and everyone heals at different rates. I have never seen a patient who has not regained complete mobility following this procedure. I would massage, do stretching exercises, and see a physical therapist. It may take another 6 months.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Thoughtful312218,

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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Wayne I. Yamahata, MD · Answer

Most patients will regain full range of motion following a tummy tuck. If you are still limited, gentle stretching exercises would be recommended. My patients have told me that yoga has been helpful. If stretching on your own is unsuccessful, you might consider assistance from a physical therapist.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

To help you gain full ability to stretch I encourage you to go slowly and gradually work up to your goal.  Be sure that you are warmed up when doing so and that your skin is moisturized.  You can even work with a stretching coach is you choose.  Skin will relax over time and you should be able to regain full mobility.

Still cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Answers (6)

Answer: Cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Answer: Cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Answer: Mobility

Answer: Mobility

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Still cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Answers (6)

Answer: Cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Answer: Cannot arch my back 1 year post Tummy Tuck

Answer: Mobility

Answer: Mobility

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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