Shiny skin and pressure/pulling after tummy tuck with muscle repair. Should I be concerned?

Question

I had a mommy make over done on November 27th 2015. I'm noticing my skin nearest to the incision (nipple) is shinny. I have no pain and no fever. Should I be concerned? Also, I had a tummy TT with muscles repair, since I returned home, I feel what I can best describe as pressure/pulling and these small knots about 3 of them. My stomach doesn't hurt is more of discomfort from the feelings described above. Is this a sign that I have damaged the muscle repair done?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Hello,Based on your description it doesn't sound as if you have any damage or unusual sensations. Skin can appear shiny when swelling is present and last for a month or two. The location of muscle repair and incision placement will feel tight, feel slightly hardened and sometimes cause pulling or discomfort with movement. Talk to your Plastic Surgeon about any concerning changes.All the best

Paul W. Papillion, MD · Answer

Hello, your questions would be best answered by your plastic surgeon who could exam you and ask you other detailed questions. Good luck.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Based solely on your description, your recovery sounds normal. However, if it worries you or any of your symptoms turn into pain, schedule an appointment to see your surgeon. Always best to err on the side of caution. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Healing after tummy tuck or mommy makeover does include a range of swelling that can be normal. Your description of abdominal pressure/pulling and some knots are common at 2+ weeks post op. I would continue to wear a garment for compression to help with your swelling. Sometimes diuretics help.   Obviously discuss these concerns with your surgeon.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear, thanks for your post, since you are still swollen the skin change and it can look shiny or dry, this is going to start looking better whith time as the healing progresses, but remember that is always good to always talk about your concerns with your PS. Good luck :)

Shiny skin and pressure/pulling after tummy tuck with muscle repair. Should I be concerned?

Answers (8)

Answer: Mommy Make Over and Tummy Tuck post op 2 weeks

Answer: Mommy Make Over and Tummy Tuck post op 2 weeks

Answer: Shiny skin

Answer: Shiny skin

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.

Shiny skin and pressure/pulling after tummy tuck with muscle repair. Should I be concerned?

Answers (8)

Answer: Mommy Make Over and Tummy Tuck post op 2 weeks

Answer: Mommy Make Over and Tummy Tuck post op 2 weeks

Answer: Shiny skin

Answer: Shiny skin

Browse related questions

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.