10 hours post TT surgery. I feel awful. When will I feel better?

Question

I had a TT earlier today as an outpatient surgery. I feel awful. My back and stomach hurt so badly, I have a migraine from my back being tight and from the norco. I can barely move and I can't get comfortable. Is this normal? When will I feel better?????

Andrew T. Lyos, MD, FACS · Answer

The recovery following a tummy tuck depends on the extent of surgery (mini, modified, full, or extended tummy tuck), the amount of liposuction, number of additional procedures performed, ect.  There has been a break through in the technology of post op pain relief for tummy tucks.  A new medication named Exparel is now being used that will provide for 3-4 days of post op pain relief, speeding up the recovery process!  The procedure can be done as an outpatient, but an overnight stay may be recommended.  Individuals will generally take a week to 10 days off of work.  Most of my patients are able to stand upright at 2 to weeks. It is normal to still feel tired and not quite yourself 3 weeks after a tummy tuck with liposuction. Swelling begins to subside in 3 weeks and it may take 6-8 weeks to resolve.  My patient report that they typically start to feel better 2 to 3 weeks after the procedure and report feeling "normal" 6 weeks post-operatively. With my own patients, I do my best to keep the lines of communication open and do everything possible to speed their recovery.	Best of luck,	Andrew Lyos, MD, FACS

Afshin Parhiscar, MD · Answer

It is rather usual to have abdominal and back pain and discomfort for 3 -4 days post tummy tuck. Most patients start feeling better at 3-4 days and will feel much better by end of week one. Congratulations on having through the surgery!

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's still very early after the surgery. I would make sure to follow your surgeon's instructions closely and contact them if any questions arise.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

You should feel better each day during recovery.  Take your medicine as directed by your surgeon. Sleep in a recliner for a few days or use lots of pillows under your knees and back.  Get up and move around every hour for a few minutes.  Follow your surgeon's post operative instructions.  It takes time to recover from tummy tuck surgery since muscle repair is done. Eat healthy and drink lots of water. Take care of yourself for a nice recovery.

10 hours post TT surgery. I feel awful. When will I feel better?

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