10 wks post op tummy tuck, drains removed after 2 days, have been unwell on and off from 2 wks post op. Thoughts?

Question

feeling like I constantly have flu like symptoms..headache ,muscle soreness on the outside of my arms and legs ..body generally sore and aching .very fatigued..this had been going on and off for 8weeks ..My surgeon did full bloods and said my results were ok ...I’m very confused as to why this is happening ..my scar is healing ok still a bit sore under the scar area but expect that to take time to heal ..

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear of the issues you are experiencing.  Since you are continuing to feel unwell the best advice is further evaluation.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns and perhaps contact your primary care physician for an assessment.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Carol.  Sorry you are having these medical issues. It does not sound like they are related to your surgery, and I would consult with your medical doctor for a full work up to evaluate your condition. Good luck.

Andrea Marando, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. As you mentioned that your plastic surgeon checked your blood after surgery to exclude either signs of excessive bleeding or increase of white blood cells (signs of infection), it is possible that during the recovery time you have contracted a minor viral infection. This should be self limiting and you should start to get better very soon. Some minor discomfort in the area of the scar is still entirely normal and expected.If you are still worried, I would then advice you to contact your surgeon once more and update him/her on the current situation. Best of luckAndrea Marando

Omar Quaba, MA, FRCS (Plast) · Answer

As others have mentioned, it is not uncommon to feel tired and washed out after a major operation like a tummy tuck. Everyone is different when it comes to recovery. It is good that you surgeon has seen you and checked your bloods. Also good that your wound is healing well. Just be patient and I would expect things to pick up soon. If you do not start to have more energy over the coming weeks, it might be worth seeing your GP for a check up. Best wishes.

Arch Miller, MD · Answer

The onset of fatigue after an extensive operation like an abdominoplasty is not unexpected. One elevates a very large flap, and the healing process generally lasts up to 9-12 months.  Your body is shunting metabolic waste from the healing area, and this tends to make on feel run down. Diet, moderate exercise, vitamins and abdominal care should improve your feeling run down. it is possible that you may have another issue that has arisen. You should check with your medical physician to see if there might be a problem revealed by the surgery.

10 wks post op tummy tuck, drains removed after 2 days, have been unwell on and off from 2 wks post op. Thoughts?

Answers (7)