Is phlegm in the throat a common problem after surgery?

An endotracheal tube can generate a small amount of irritation of the upper airway.  The cells respond by secreting protective mucous that may trigger the need to cough and clear the airway.  This can be problematic after abdominal surgery but in spite of the pain, the airway needs to be kept clean.

It is not uncommon to have some throat irritation after surgery because you've been intubated (have a breathing tube in your throat). This can range from throat soreness to coughing. It's important to take deep breaths after surgery, especially after big cases like a mommy makeover, to prevent atelectasis (partial lung collapse because the alveolar sacs are unable to fully inflate). A cough pillow may help with the pain - press the pillow firmly against your stomach to ease the pain during coughing. If the phlegm persists, make sure to tell your surgeon and PCP.

This can occur for many reasons including irritation from the breathing tube, taking shallow breaths, seasonal allergies, etc.  I encourage you to walk around multiple times per day and do deep breathing exercises.  Mention your concerns to your surgeon for other helpful suggestions.

Some patients will experience some irritation post op (especially after having been intubated for general anesthesia). This irritation can manifest as increased secretions. However, this is typically self limited and short lived.The post operative phase (especially following abdominal surgery) is a risk for pulmonary infection. Patients will typically splint and take shallow breaths secondary to the pain associated with full and deep inspiration. If efforts are not made to clear these secretions and breathe deeply it can progress to more serious conditions such as pneumonia.The best recommendation is good pain control and deep breaths. These together will help to clear the secretions and avoid a lingering worsening problem.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon (ABPS). 

I know of no direct cause of prolonged phlegm after surgery. The irritation from the intubation should resolve relatively quickly. There are other causes of secretions that may need investigation. Coughing and deep breathing after surgery is helpful to reduce other potential issues. If it persists - I would discuss with the Operating Surgeon .

This is related to the breathing tube being placed and can cause an irritation. I would suggest following up with your board certified surgeon about this.