Has my abdominal muscle repair failed? (Photo)

Question

Hello, I had a full tt with abdominal repair from top to bottom, lipo, hernia repair almost 5 weeks ago. About a week after surgery I strained myself some and have now noticed the top of my stomach has become protruding and I feel like it has no support at all. Once I eat or drink it becomes more prominent as if I'm pregnant. Going in I had very little skin that needed removing, I am physically fit. 5'4" 125lbs. 5 weeks after surgery the area is still extremely sore. Have the sutures failed?

Robert J. Spies, MD · Answer

It seems like you are healing quite well.  I do not see any major bulging from the top of your tummy.  Please see your surgeon if you are concerned, however.The upper bulging you experience occurs after eating because the stomach expands to handle the food before digestion.  When tummy muscles are loose, this is not as noticeable.To further tighten abdominal muscles after tummy tuck, I recommend ab and core workouts beginning 8 weeks to 12 weeks after surgery.Dr Spies

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Unfortunately it's very hard to tell without examining you in person. Make sure to express your concerns to your surgeon so that they can examine you.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

There are a couple of things to consider with your healing period from your tummy tuck. While you are likely able to handle your normal daily activities the swelling and healing of the sutures is still in progress. If you are feeling any pain or discomfort from your strain that was experience, your best option may be to see your surgeon in person to have the area evaluated.Swelling can persist for several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months, six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area and the scrotal and penis area for men can become very swollen and discolored during the first two weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate.Best of luck!

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

in the upper abdomen after a tummy tuck with muscle plication as the plication pulls your tissues towards the midline and the like how the Rockies were formed, the fullness is very similar.  If you're convinced you tore something, ask your surgeon as you can be checked by doing a crunch and feeling the midline of your abdomen.  I'm doubtful you tore anything or sutures failed but confirm with your surgeon.

Robert V. Mandraccia, MD · Answer

it could be you have some separation of the upper repair, but that would probably take quite a bit of exertion at 5 weeks. See you doctor, get an ultrasound, and wait a month or two to let things quiet down.

Has my abdominal muscle repair failed? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Very common for fullness

Answer: Very common for fullness

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuxk

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuxk

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

Has my abdominal muscle repair failed? (Photo)

Answers (8)

Answer: Very common for fullness

Answer: Very common for fullness

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuxk

Answer: Swelling after tummy tuxk

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.