Could I have ruined my internal tummy tuck stitching? 2 weeks post (photo)

Question

I'm about two weeks post-op from a tummy tuck (no lipo). Great results with very little swelling or discomfort. Unfortunately, I temporarily forgot to be careful and went to help move some heavy furniture. Before long I began to have burning sensations and had to stop. Ever since then I have had shooting pains and feeling like my skin and muscles are slowly stretching while my abdomen gets slightly more protruding. Is it possible I could have torn my internal stitching? I'm trying not to panic.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. I will suggest scheduling a follow up appointment with your surgeon. A personal examination is needed to properly address your concerns.

Aisha White, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question.  It is impossible to determine if any harm was done when you moved the furniture from pictures and description alone.  It is certainly possible that some internal sutures were damaged.  On the other hand, it could just be temporary discomfort and swelling.  I recommend you contact your surgeons office as they may request to see you for evaluation to rule out any complications.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There is no way to know without an exam if there is any damage from the heavy lifting that you did.  Schedule a visit with your surgeon for an evaluation.  In the meantime be sure to rest the area and take NSAIDs if not allergic to help with pain and swelling.

Could I have ruined my internal tummy tuck stitching? 2 weeks post (photo)

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