Pain relief following tummy tuck?

Question

I'm very nervous about proper pain relief following my upcoming tummy tuck. I had a terrible experience with post op pain after having a transternal thymectomy, and had my blood pressure bottom out and collapsing. I also have a condition that can be aggravated by pain and stress. I have a threshold due to treatment for chronic pain. Is Percocet and Valium a good/common treatment for managing post op tummy tuck pain?

Andrew Wolfe, MD · Answer

Many patients are concerned with the discomfort they may feel after a tummy tuck.  Tightening the muscle layer does result is some pain after the surgery, which may require oral narcotics for 4-5 days, on average.  I have had great success with a medication called Exparel, which is an injected local anesthetic that lasts for 2 1/2 to 3 days.  The entire muscle layer and the skin can be injected, and patients report markedly decreased discomfort.  I have even had some patients use zero narcotics after a tummy tuck with Exparel.  It isn't cheap (approx $500 extra cost) but for patients with significant pain issues it has proven to be very worthwhile!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At our office we use Exparel in surgery which helps control post op pain the first few days after surgery.  This can be supplemented with other pain medications to keep the patient comfortable.  I recommend speaking with your surgeon about your concerns and discussing options to find what is best for you.

Aisha White, MD · Answer

In general, Norco (hydrocodone/acetaminophen) and Percocet (oxycodone/acetaminophen) tend to be common medications prescribed following abdominoplasty.  Of course, medications vary from surgeon to surgeon.  If you tend to have issues with pain control, it is best you discuss the plan for post-op pain control with your surgeon.  Often times, if you have chronic pain the best option is to have your current pain managment doctor handle the post op medications to avoid having multiple doctors prescribing narcotics.

Francis Johns, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.Every surgeon is different on their post-op pain protocol. Typically Percocet is given to help with pain, along with a Benzodiazipine (Valium, Ativan..) to help you relax and sleep. Another option is muscle relaxers if you are having the muscles repaired to help with spasms and also relax you during the first week. If you are already on pain medication, this is something you want to discuss with your pain management doctor and your surgeon so that they can work together to best control your pain. Good luck with your decision.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Jall823,every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative and pain management protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Pain relief following tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

Answer: Pain after surgery

Answer: Pain after surgery

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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Pain relief following tummy tuck?

Answers (8)

Answer: Pain after surgery

Answer: Pain after surgery

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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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.