Had a sleeve gastrectomy 2 weeks ago and suddenly feeling a sharp pain in my abdomen on the lower right side. Is this worrisome?

Question

I had a sleeve gastrectomy 2 weeks ago and I just started feeling this sharp pain 4 days ago in my abdomen on the right lower quadrant. The pain is nowhere near my incision. It is just lateral to my bellybutton. It feels like I'm being stuck by a knife or pinched really really hard. The pain is the worst when I'm sitting, when I lean up when sitting, or when I bent over to pick something up off the ground. This is excruciating pain. Is this something to worry about?

Wiljon W. Beltre, MD · Answer

I dont think this pain is related to the gastric sleeve.  However, you still need to make sure it is not appendicitis.  Of course it could be other things like a hernia or a pulled muscle.  You should consult with a bariatric or a general surgeon just to be sure.  Again, I doubt this pain is related to the gastric sleeve.

Ali Solmaz, MD · Answer

Experiencing a new, sharp, and localized pain two weeks after sleeve gastrectomy warrants careful attention, especially when the discomfort is described as excruciating and distinct from the usual post-surgical soreness. The location of your pain &mdash; in the right lower quadrant, lateral to the belly button and away from the incision sites &mdash; combined with the stabbing or pinching sensation that worsens with movement or changes in position, raises concern for a potential post-operative complication.
At this stage in recovery, causes of such pain could range from musculoskeletal strain, particularly if you’ve recently increased activity, to more serious issues such as a hernia, localized infection, or even intra-abdominal complications such as a fluid collection or irritation of internal structures. While it is possible the discomfort stems from something benign like nerve irritation or muscle strain, the severity and persistence of your symptoms, especially when they interfere with basic movements like sitting or bending, make it essential to seek medical evaluation.
You should not ignore this level of pain. Contact your bariatric surgical team as soon as possible for a physical examination and, if needed, diagnostic imaging. Early intervention can rule out or address complications promptly and help ensure your recovery continues safely.

Had a sleeve gastrectomy 2 weeks ago and suddenly feeling a sharp pain in my abdomen on the lower right side. Is this worrisome?

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Had a sleeve gastrectomy 2 weeks ago and suddenly feeling a sharp pain in my abdomen on the lower right side. Is this worrisome?

Answers (2)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Gastric Sleeve Surgery

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.