How Long Does Tightness After Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Last?

Question

I had a Tummy Tuck and lipo just two weeks ago. I am not very patient so I was wondering, for how long will I have the tight sensation on my lower area? Its hard for me to walk normal. I am still a little bent over and it hurts my back. I just cant get staright as I feel the muscles pulling. Please help.

William Bruno, MD · Answer

The tightness you experience after a tummy tuck may last for months after the surgery. However, it will get better each week provided you avoid heavy lifting for about 6-8 weeks after the procedure. Back pain often occurs as patients are in a flexed or bent over posture immediately after the surgery, this will improve with time as your posture becomes more upright. Try not to stand upright too soon, as this places excess tension on the wound and may result in a widened or elevated scar.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello prettyone in Orlando, FL. Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about the tightness you are experiencing after your recent tummy tuck and liposuction.

Feeling tightness, especially in the lower abdominal area, is quite normal following a tummy tuck and can last for several weeks or even months. This sensation is due to several factors, including the healing of tightened muscles, the body's natural response to surgical trauma, and the process of the skin and tissues adjusting to their new contours.

Duration of Tightness and Discomfort:

Initial Weeks: The first few weeks post-surgery are typically the most uncomfortable. It’s common to feel tight and find it challenging to stand up straight. This is partly due to the tightening of the abdominal muscles and the surgical technique used to flatten the abdomen.

Healing Process: As the healing progresses, the tightness will gradually decrease. Most patients start to feel more comfortable and can stand straighter within 2-6 weeks after surgery. Complete resolution of this tight feeling can take several months as the internal tissues fully heal and become more flexible.

Supportive Measures:

Wear Compression Garments: Continue wearing any prescribed compression garments as these help support the healing tissues and can reduce discomfort and swelling.
Follow Pain Management Advice: Use the pain medications as prescribed by your surgeon to help manage discomfort.
Gentle Movement: Engage in light walking and gentle movements to promote blood flow, which aids in healing. Avoid strenuous activities but try to slowly increase your activity level under your surgeon’s guidance.
Posture and Back Pain: The inability to stand straight can indeed lead to back pain. This should improve as you regain the ability to stand up straight without discomfort. If back pain persists, inform your surgeon. They might recommend specific exercises, physical therapy, or additional measures to alleviate the pain.

Follow-Up with Your Surgeon: Regular follow-ups with your plastic surgeon are crucial. They will track your progress, ensure that your recovery is on track, and advise when and how to safely increase your activities.

Patience is Key: It's understandable to feel impatient, but recovery from a tummy tuck and liposuction is a gradual process. It’s important to give your body time to adjust and heal properly.

If the tightness feels unusually severe or if you have any concerns about your recovery process, it’s important to contact your surgeon. They can provide reassurance, check for any complications, and make sure your recovery is progressing as expected.

Remember, every individual’s recovery is unique, and your surgeon is your best resource for any concerns or questions during this period.

Sincerely,

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

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

AT two weeks after a tummy tuck, you should be able to stand erect and stretch your abdomen from my point of view. Your failure to do so will likely increase the strain on your back, However, it is best for you to discuss this with your surgeon and ask for his/her advice.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Tightness after a tummy tuck is normal. This may last for several months.  As he swelling subsides the tissues will soften and things will not feel as tight.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

The combination of a tummy tuck and liposuction is a very popular and effective way to contour the abdomen. After this combination, patients should anticipate a significant recovery process which includes bruising and swelling. The majority of your bruising will go away within the first 3 to 4 weeks. Immediately after the surgery, patients may experience significant tightness in the lower abdomen that may make it difficult for them to stand completely straight. Rest assured that this tightness will result in 3 to 5 days, allowing the patient to stand up straight and lie flat. In our practice, we routinely give all our patients not one, but two compression garments because we feel this is important to help manage the swelling and help the patient recover quickly.

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How Long Does Tightness After Tummy Tuck and Liposuction Last?

Answers (6)