Is pain when having a bowel movement after a tummy tuck a cause for concern?

Constipation due to pain medication following tummy tuck would not be unusual, but, you are probably no longer taking narcotics at this time.   I would have suggested that you follow up with your PS which is exactly what you did.  Your PS knows the specifics of your surgery and how you are healing; follow her post-operative protocols.  Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Thank you for your question and congratulations on your surgery. I'm glad that you reached out to your surgeon for specific advice. I would agree that if nothing has changed then it's unlikely that you did any permanent damage. After a tummy tuck procedure constipation can be an issue, because opioid pain medications will slow down your bowels. After a muscle repair, there can be pain with straining if you are constipated. Speak with your surgeon about their recommendations for constipation. In my office, all of my patients start MiraLAX the day after surgery and take it daily until they are completely regular. Congratulations again on your procedure. 

If narcotics are given after a tummy tuck, patients routinely experience constipation. It is not uncommon to go 5-7 days or longer without having a BM. It is best to be on a stool softener to help with this. It can be painful to have a BM when constipated.