Sneezing After Tummy Tuck and Heard a Pop?

Question

I am two weeks post op. I sneezed yesterday. I felt a pop near my incision on my left side. A little swelling started in my lower abdomen. My drain started filling faster. Did I ruin my results. I woke up this morning and my lower abdomen is still swollen it is hard to explain but my stomach does not feel as tight on the inside This is so frustrating.

James Knoetgen, III, MD · Answer

Hearing a pop after sneezing post-tummy tuck can be alarming, but it's not uncommon. Here's what you need to know:
Why It Happens:
•	Internal Pressure: Sneezing creates a sudden increase in internal pressure, which can strain the sutures and muscles that were repaired during your tummy tuck. This might cause a popping sensation.
•	Healing Process: During recovery, your body is adjusting to the changes made during surgery. The pop could be related to the muscle or tissue settling.
What to Do:
1.	Assess Pain: If you feel significant pain, notice swelling, or see changes in your incision area, it's important to contact your plastic surgeon immediately.
2.	Rest: Continue to follow your post-operative care instructions, including avoiding any activities that could strain your abdomen.
3.	Follow-Up: Schedule a follow-up appointment with your plastic surgeon to ensure everything is healing correctly and to address any concerns.
When to Seek Medical Attention:
•	Persistent or severe pain
•	Swelling or bruising around the incision
•	Signs of infection, like redness, warmth, or discharge
•	Difficulty breathing or any other alarming symptoms
In most cases, the pop is harmless, but it's always best to err on the side of caution and check in with your plastic surgeon to ensure your recovery is on track.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

Call your  Plastic surgeons office for an appointment to see him, or her right a way.  You may have started some bleeding.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.

	Either that or you may have started a little bleeding.  I would see your plastic surgeon right away.

Sneezing After Tummy Tuck and Heard a Pop?

Answers (3)

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.

Sneezing After Tummy Tuck and Heard a Pop?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

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.