Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post lower body lift. What could it be?

Question

I have some mild pain in my upper abdominal muscle on one side only that only started 3 days ago. It is not constant - it only hurts in certain positions (and is relieved a lot from putting my binder back on). I followed all post operative instructions. What could it be? I’ll be seeing my PS in a few days but would value some additional options now. Thank you.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Based on my own experience (LBL) I must tell you that may be the muscle repair. After months and even couple of years I have experienced that “muscle tear” pain, which is improved with the bending position because you relax the muscle with it. Something you did (sudden movement) disturbed the muscle repair  scar tissue surrounding it, and caused the pain. It is very unlikely that the muscle get torn. If the pain continues, add some muscle relaxer for 3-4 days, relax, wear your garment for a week and it will go away. If not, definitely go to your surgeon office. Dr. Cárdenas

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello, thank you for your question regarding pain in your abdomen after a lower body lift.  What you're describing is common. During a lower body lift or abdominoplasty ( tummy tuck), the rectus abdominus (six pack) muscles are tightened with permanent sutures.  This muscle group is sutured in two layers from the bottom of the sternum to the top of the pubic bone.  What you are feeling is the tension on the muscles as you become more active.  Over time this pain should subside.   Good luck.  If you have any more question about the lower body lift, 360 circumferential lower body lift, or muscle tightness, please contact my office.  As always, when considering plastic surgery, seek an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in the body lift procedure.  Sincerely, Dr. Katzen (Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.)

David Azouz, MD, FACS, FRCS(C) · Answer

Pain after a lower body lift can be related to many different factors:
It could be related to muscle spasm, a muscle pull or to dissolving sutures in the muscle.  This usually not anything the patient has done especially after 8 weeks.
A plastic surgeon can do a physical exam and determine if you are on track for your healing.

Chad Robbins, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.   You will have intermittent pulling sensations probably for the first year after surgery.   They aren't alarming but they just tend to remind you here and there.  Some of my patient's like wearing their binder weeks to months after they are no longer required.

Nick Masri, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations on your lower body lift, 321NK!
Occasional and mild muscle pain and soreness are not unusual up to three months after your body lift, so I don’t think you have to worry about it. Your tightened muscles may be stretching and getting used to its  new shape as you move around.
Still, it’s best to ask your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon about it.
Best of luck!

Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post lower body lift. What could it be?

Answers (5)

Answer: Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post op

Answer: Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post op

Answer: Muscle pain after lower body lift

Answer: Muscle pain after lower body lift

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Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post lower body lift. What could it be?

Answers (5)

Answer: Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post op

Answer: Pain in muscle 7.5 weeks post op

Answer: Muscle pain after lower body lift

Answer: Muscle pain after lower body lift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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