Did I damage tummy tuck muscle repair by doing too much too soon? I've had shooting pain in my abdomen after lifting.

Question

4weeks p.o. Up to three days ago, recovery had been remarkable. Was up & walking day 2. By day 6 I was walking upright. Day 7 drains out & everything going smoothly. Wk3 back to work(physical ed teacher). I was careful not to run, stretch, jump etc. Bus dismissal I made mistake of lifting a pre k student. Since this I've had shooting pain in my abdomen directly above mybellybutton that radiates? Did I just strain the repair and need to get some rest or could I have damaged the repair?? Scared!

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

More than likely you did strain your muscle.  This will respond to rest. Your surgeon should have given you lifting restrictions. Please follow them.

Christopher J. Morea, MD · Answer

At four weeks post op, I doubt this has cause an irreparable damage.  Take it easy for a few days, rest and take an over the counter pain med. Let your ps know about this at your next visit.Best of luck,

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

Most probably you just overstretched the muscle which is barely healing, and that is the reason of the sharp pain.Resting, bending over position when you have the pain, muscle relaxer will all help.Let your body to heal. TT is not a joke.Dr. Cardenas

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Early out of tummy tuck surgery, the concern with your description would be, the potential for disruption of sutures that are holding the abdominal wall muscles together in the midline.  If enough disruption occurs, the result could be separation of the abdominal wall muscles and localized or complete, abdominal wall laxity ( similar to preoperative situation).

In general, it would take a significant amount of pressure to “tear" the muscle repair after tummy tuck surgery. This event would likely be associated with significant discomfort. A change in your physical examination, such as increased swelling, bleeding, a new onset "bulge" would also be likely.

Generally speaking, abdominal wall muscle plication performed during tummy tuck surgery is quite secure; disruption is very unusual.  You will be best off following up with your plastic surgeon who will be your best resource when it comes to accurate assessment, advice, and/or meaningful reassurance.

Best wishes.

Michael Law, MD · Answer

You probably did not do any permanent damage, but you should inform your plastic surgeon of your activity and any discomfort. And then, follow your doctor's orders!

John Sampson, MD (license obligations) · Answer

It sounds like you did do a bit too much but I would recommend you see you surgeon rather than worrying about things

Brooke R. Seckel, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

I doubt that lifting a pre-K student significantly disrupted your tummy tuck muscle repair.  By 4 weeks she should be well on your way to healing.However it is very important that you see your plastic surgeon for an examination.  Your surgeon will be able to examine the repair to make certain that no damage was done.

Did I damage tummy tuck muscle repair by doing too much too soon? I've had shooting pain in my abdomen after lifting.

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