I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Question

I had a tummy tuck 10/2018. 3 weeks ago I went hiking then did an intense workout that included my abdomen. Since then my stomach feels sore and doesn’t feel flat. Seem swollen above my belly button. Supposedly I had permanent sutures in place. Has something been damaged, or should swelling come down on its own? Should I be worried?

Matthew C. Camp, MD · Answer

Although it is rare, rectus diastasis repairs can fail. The abdominal muscles are powerful, and can rend the fascia and sutures if tested with vigor and repeated exertion. Abdominal extercise generally does not cause swelling above the umbilicus. Give it a couple weeks to settle down, then if it persists go see a plastic surgeon. Best wishes

Matthew C Camp

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At two years post op you are seeing your final results from your abominoplasty and any repairs are completely healed.  You may have caused an injury/strain to the muscle that should improve with rest.  If not, return to your surgeon for an evaluation.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  After two years of an uncomplicated recovery you should be able to perform any workout without risk to muscle repair.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Getting back into an intense workout after a long hiatus, you may have muscle tenderness that often shows up a day or two after your workout. Post-workout muscle pain is often accompanied by swelling that may register as a few extra pounds on the scale. If your swelling continues, consult with your PCP.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bella.,
every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. You should be able to continue workout 2 years after a tummy tuck. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Answers (9)

Answer: I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Answer: I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Answers (9)

Answer: I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Answer: I’m two years out from a tummy tuck, can an intense workout including abs undo the muscle repair?

Answer: Postoperative protocol

Answer: Postoperative protocol

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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.