Will it be painful to get a tummy tuck?

Question

46 years old with abdominal muscles separation and partial uterus prolapse

Max Polo, MD · Answer

When a tummy tuck includes muscle plication or repair of the rectus diastasis it is more painful than a simple skin excision procedure. Dr. Polo does a "Painless Drainless Tummy Tuck". He places two small catheters through the skin and beneath the two layers of muscle sutures. The two catheters attach to an On-Q pump filled with local anesthesia which automatically drips into the site, making the patient more comfortable.

Christopher Pannucci, MD, MS · Answer

Hi creampuff123,
My typical pain control protocol for tummy tuck patients prioritizes non-narcotic medications and includes:1. Preop and 7 days postop gabapentin (nerve blocking pain medication)2. Preop and 7 days postop Tylenol3. Postop 7 days Aleve4. Intra-op Exparel (a 3 day long injectable pain medication)5. Oxycodone, an oral narcotic, as needed if #1 through #4 are insufficient.
With that regimen, most patients are able to minimize their narcotic usage after surgery.
Hope this helps.
Best,Chris Pannucci MDBoard Certified Plastic SurgeonPlastic Surgery NorthwestSpokane Washington

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There is recovery involved with a tummy tuck.  The surgery involves correcting muscle wall separation, and removing excess fat and skin.  However patients have tools available to manage discomfort, which is worst at the beginning.  Narcotic based pain medication, positioning, and a a medication called Exparel that is given during surgery are just a few tools used.  I encourage you to visit with a board certified plastic surgeon near you to learn more.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear creampuff123,
with a meticulous surgical technique and good postoperative protocol, you shouldn't have any major pain. If you are considering a surgery, I would suggest you to consult a board-certified plastic surgeon. Only after a thorough examination you will get more information and recommendations.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Will it be painful to get a tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

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Will it be painful to get a tummy tuck?

Answers (4)

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

Answer: Tummy tuck candidate

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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.