4 days post op Smart Lipo on abs and back. Is it normal to feel the pulling of the stitches?

Your question is very interesting. You mentioned feeling the sensation of "pulling stitches on the right-hand side of your hips and ribs". In that area, unless you have an entry site that was stitched closed, you’re probably feeling a sensation that is related to swelling. The skin is trying to re-mend and re-attach itself to the underlying muscle, and sometimes this can cause a “pulling" feeling. Consult with your surgeon for further evaluation.
Best of luck!
Windell Davis Boutte’, MD 

Reading between the lines of your comments, i strongly suspect that you are not moving and stretching enough. Also the incisions are very small with Smartlipo and are usually closed by a single dissolving suture. you don't need to worry about the incision breaking open. i strongly encourage my patients to resume exercising after just 5 days!!Hang in there, it will get better and easier.david berman md