What could be the cause of abdominal tightness and discomfort after a lower body lift?

Question

had a lower body lift Sept 2015. While delighted with the results I still struggle with terrible abdominal tightness and discomfort. Some days it is really really bad and affects my daily routine. Why is this?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the persistent abdominal tightness and discomfort you’re experiencing following your lower body lift. While it’s great to hear that you’re happy with the aesthetic results, it’s concerning that this discomfort is still affecting your daily life years after the procedure.

The abdominal tightness you're feeling could be due to a few factors. One possibility is nerve involvement or nerve damage from the surgery. During a lower body lift, nerves can sometimes be stretched or injured, leading to a sensation of tightness, pulling, or even discomfort that can persist long after the initial healing period.

Another potential cause could be internal scar tissue or adhesions. Scar tissue can form beneath the skin, sometimes attaching to deeper tissues and causing a pulling or tight feeling, especially during movement. These adhesions can also contribute to discomfort and restrict mobility in the abdominal area.

Additionally, muscle repair during a lower body lift can sometimes lead to prolonged tightness. If your abdominal muscles were tightened as part of the procedure, you might feel ongoing tightness, especially if the muscles are healing or adapting slowly.

It’s important to consult your surgeon about these symptoms. They may recommend imaging, like an ultrasound or MRI, to check for scar tissue, adhesions, or other internal issues. Physical therapy, scar massage, or nerve treatments might also be helpful in alleviating your discomfort.

I hope this provides some clarity and guides you toward finding relief from the tightness and discomfort.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I appreciate your question. I suggest you see a medical expert for a diagnosis. This could be serious and some labs and imaging may be required to identify the cause. Good luck. Dr. Aldo

Jon S. Wilensky, MD · Answer

Abdominal tightness and discomfort after a lower body lift can be caused by several factors, including:1. Surgical trauma: The surgery involves cutting and repositioning tissues, which can lead to post-operative pain and tightness as the body heals.2. Swelling and inflammation: Swelling is a natural response to surgery, and it can cause a sensation of tightness and discomfort in the abdominal area.3. Muscular tension: The muscles in the abdominal area may be under increased tension or stress due to the surgical procedure, contributing to tightness and discomfort.4. Nerve irritation: Nerves in the surgical area may become irritated during the procedure, leading to sensations of discomfort.5. Scar tissue formation: As the incisions heal, scar tissue may form, which can contribute to tightness and discomfort.It’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, including pain management and mobility exercises, to help alleviate these symptoms and support a smooth recovery. If you’re experiencing severe or persistent discomfort, it’s crucial to consult with your surgeon to rule out any complications.

What could be the cause of abdominal tightness and discomfort after a lower body lift?

Answers (3)

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