Discomfort from Tummy Tuck 2+ years post op. Would this be scar tissue or nerve damage? (photos)

Question

Male 34 here. I had a tummy tuck ( no muscle repair)done in London in 2021, however I am feeling a constant tightness/tenderness in my lower abdomen between my long scar and belly button. I have since moved to Toronto and no longer have access to my surgeon. It is not painful, however it is very tender and uncomfortable, especially when I wake up first thing in the morning. Would this be scar tissue or nerve damage? I would preferably want to avoid another tummy tuck. How can I fix this?

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Without a muscle repair the most likely causes would be scar tissue or sensory nerve injury.  Both occur to some degree in all abdominoplasties.  Your description of tightness makes me lean toward scarring which should have gradually improved.  As it is three years since your abdominoplasty, you may wish to form a relationship with a new plastic surgeon in Toronto and have them evaluate you. Best wishes.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Jimmy365,

Thank you for your question regarding the discomfort you're experiencing more than two years after your tummy tuck.

It's not uncommon to feel tightness or tenderness in the lower abdomen after a tummy tuck, even a couple of years post-op. This could be due to scar tissue or nerve damage, both of which can cause the symptoms you're describing.

1. Scar Tissue:

Formation: Scar tissue forms as part of the natural healing process after surgery. It can sometimes create tightness or a pulling sensation, especially in areas where the skin was significantly tightened during the procedure.
Symptoms: The tightness and tenderness you feel, particularly in the mornings, could be related to the build-up of scar tissue.
Treatment:
Massage Therapy: Regularly massaging the area can help break down the scar tissue. Using silicone-based scar creams can also be beneficial.
Physical Therapy: A physical therapist can provide exercises and techniques to improve flexibility and reduce scar tissue.
Ultrasound Therapy: This can be used to break down the deeper scar tissue.
2. Nerve Damage:

Cause: During a tummy tuck, nerves can be stretched, cut, or damaged, leading to changes in sensation or discomfort.
Symptoms: Nerve damage might cause tingling, numbness, or a burning sensation in the affected area.
Treatment:
Medications: Over-the-counter pain relievers can help manage the discomfort. In some cases, prescription medications for nerve pain may be needed.
Nerve Blocks: These can be performed by a specialist to help manage chronic pain.
Physical Therapy: Specific exercises can help manage nerve pain and improve mobility.
Next Steps:

Consult a Specialist: Since you’ve moved to Toronto, it would be best to consult with a local plastic surgeon or a specialist in post-surgical care to get a proper assessment of your condition.
Diagnostic Tests: An ultrasound or MRI might be needed to assess the extent of scar tissue or nerve damage.
Avoiding another tummy tuck is understandable, and fortunately, there are non-surgical treatments that can help alleviate your symptoms. Consulting with a specialist will provide a tailored treatment plan to address your discomfort.

Good luck, and I hope this helps to answer your question regarding the discomfort you're experiencing after your tummy tuck.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Since the discomfort you are experiencing is more than two years after your surgery it's difficult to say that it is related to your tummy tuck, as it may be something else completely.  As you are distant from your surgeon I encourage you to visit with another board certified plastic surgeon near you or your primary care physician for an evaluation.

Manuel Diaz, MD · Answer

Hello! Please, if you have the opportunity, update the information with photos, so that I can give you better advice and see closely the scar left by the last surgery. Keloids look like firm, hard, raised scars. They get bigger over time. Its color varies from slightly pink to very dark. Keloids can rub against clothing and become irritated, itchy, or painful. For healing, An average duration of 30.4 months aprox. You should get a consultation with a specialist. good luck!

I am Doctor Díaz, Plastic Surgeon.  I would love to help you. I perform surgeries at  CECIP Plastic Surgery Clinic, in the Dominican Republic.

Discomfort from Tummy Tuck 2+ years post op. Would this be scar tissue or nerve damage? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: KELOIDS OR NERVE DAMAGE!!!!

Answer: KELOIDS OR NERVE DAMAGE!!!!

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Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Discomfort from Tummy Tuck 2+ years post op. Would this be scar tissue or nerve damage? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: KELOIDS OR NERVE DAMAGE!!!!

Answer: KELOIDS OR NERVE DAMAGE!!!!

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.