Pulling Sensation 1 Month Post Full Tummy Tuck?

Question

When will the pulling sensation from belly button down goes away? It's extremely uncomfortable and I am starting to get panicked that it will never feel normal again!

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. The pulls and tugs can be present for 6-9 months as you heal and return to normal. This is part of the process and we suggest gentle stretching exercises to assist in increasing your range of motion. I hope this helps.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Usually by month tightness is noticeable but not uncomfortable. This should improve with time but ask about it the next time you see your plastic surgeon.

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

There will be some tightness around the belly button for a few months, but this will gradually lighten with time. Raffy Karamanoukian, Los Angeles

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

The tightness you are describing is relatively normal after a full tummy tuck. It may take some time (2-3 months) for most of that to relax, but it usually will completely resolve. Make sure you keep in touch with your surgeon.

Jeffrey W. Hall, MD · Answer

It is normal to still have swelling and tightness at a month post surgery.  The tightness and swelling you are feeling could occur for several months.  This is part of the healing process.

Kara K. Criswell, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for the great question! After a tummy tuck, many patients describe a pulling sensation, or a tightness. For the vast majority of patients, this is a normal part of the healing process. Often, swelling may increase these sensations, so any care directed at managing the swelling can improve the sensations. Massage to the area and compression garments worn as needed can help. Ultimately, it may just take time to resolve. As with any post operative issue, make sure to continue to discuss it with your plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Pablo Prichard, MD · Answer

Dear MOT,

	Thank you for your post.  This is not abnormal and may take several months for the tightness and pulling to go away.  This skin will stretch with time.

	Best Wishes, 

	Pablo Prichard, MD

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD · Answer

Tightness of the abdomen is not unusual for the first 3 months.  Gradual stretching exercises and getting back to normal activities will all help.

Jourdan Gottlieb, MD · Answer

Best to discuss this with your surgeon in the office so that an examination can be done. Almost all sensations such as you describe are temporary. 

	All the best.

Pulling Sensation 1 Month Post Full Tummy Tuck?

Answers (9)

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