Spasms after tummy tuck - Is this normal? Will it ruin my repair? How can I prevent this.

Question

I had my tummy tuck and muscle repair done yesterday morning. No it’s the next day and it’s 1:15 am and can’t sleep because I have off and on what feel like spams-contractions. They come on quick and are painful. Is this normal? Will it ruin my repair? How can I prevent this. It hurts :(

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Shelly1414,
muscle spasms can occur in early post-operative period after tummy tuck and you can have some pain and discomfort. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after 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

Eric Schaffer, MD, FACS · Answer

Congratulations on your recent tummy tuck surgery !  Spasms after surgery is very common and expected when the muscles are tightened during the procedure. Muscle relaxants can be prescribed from your plastic surgeon. The spasms should not ruin the repair you had and are a result of the surgery.  Discuss with your plastic surgeon recommendations to help you with your discomfort  Good luck.

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

Having spasm after muscle plication is not unusual and will resolve in time.  It can certainly be uncomfortable, so for that reason I prescribe my patients muscle relaxants after such a procedure as well as a breast augmentation procedure to help with the spasms.I would discuss this with your surgeon as it may help your discomfort.The spasm will not harm your repair or your results, it is more of a comfort issue.Hope that helps.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

The tightening of the muscles may play a role in the muscle spasms.  Muscle spasms can happen for many reasons.  There are multiple postoperative pain control options that exist and your surgeon should be able to keep your pain controlled.  Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Spasms after a tummy tuck can be normal and are often related to muscle and tissue healing. They may not necessarily ruin your repair, but it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. You can prevent or alleviate spasms by:1. Medication: Follow your surgeon’s prescribed pain medication regimen, as this can help reduce muscle contractions and discomfort.2. Rest: Adequate rest and limited physical activity during the initial recovery period can reduce muscle strain and spasms.3. Gentle stretches: Light, controlled stretches recommended by your surgeon can help prevent muscle tightness and spasms.4. Stay hydrated: Proper hydration supports muscle function and can help reduce cramping.5. Follow your surgeon’s advice: Always consult with your surgeon if you have concerns about post-operative spasms, as they can provide specific guidance based on your case.Remember that post-operative symptoms can vary among individuals, so it’s crucial to maintain open communication with your surgeon to ensure a successful recovery.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Muscle spasms can occur after a tummy tuck when the muscles are tightened.  They are typically well controlled with the use of muscle relaxers prescribed by your surgeon.  Although uncomfortable, they will not ruin your result.

Nicholas A. Flugstad, MD · Answer

Muscle spasms are common after tummy tuck with muscle plication, within the first few weeks of surgery. There are several treatments that I use to improve the post op tummy tuck recovery.1. Exparel: This fabulous numbing medicine lasts for the first 2-3 days after surgery, and dramatically improves your immediate post op experience2. Muscle relaxants: There are several medicines that can be given (in addition to narcotics) that help your muscles relax during the first few weeks after surgery. these can be taken as needed.3. Pain medications: These are usually necessary to relieve your pain immediately after surgery4. Long term: compression and stretches. These help your abdomen get back to normal after surgery. It takes a few weeks, if muscle plication was needed.

Spasms after tummy tuck - Is this normal? Will it ruin my repair? How can I prevent this.

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