360 body lift, all looks great after 3 years. I still have severe pain on the both sides my body.

Question

I still have severe pain (needles and tightness) on both sides of my body. When I rub those areas the is lots of burning pain deep below the surface. Belts hurt, snugg waistbands, basically anything with elastic waistbands. I usually buy clothing 2 time bigger if they have elastic. I am very active 56 years old, ride bikes and walking daily. it feel like sutures were left in and I am ripping at them daily. Any suggestions?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding the severe pain you’re experiencing three years after your 360 body lift. It’s understandable that this ongoing discomfort is impacting your quality of life, especially given your active lifestyle. The burning pain, tightness, and sensitivity to waistbands could be related to nerve involvement, which sometimes occurs after major surgeries like a body lift. Nerves in the surgical area may have been stretched or injured, leading to neuropathy, a condition that can cause burning sensations or feelings like needles beneath the skin.

Another potential cause of your discomfort is scar tissue or adhesions. These can form beneath the skin and lead to tightness or pulling sensations, especially when there’s pressure from belts or elastic waistbands. There’s also a chance that internal sutures were left behind or haven’t been fully absorbed, which could explain the sensation that you’re "ripping" at something inside when you move.

I recommend speaking with your surgeon to evaluate the possibility of nerve damage, residual sutures, or scar tissue. Imaging studies like an ultrasound or MRI may be useful in determining the exact cause. If nerve damage is confirmed, treatment options such as nerve blocks, steroid injections, or medications like gabapentin may help. Additionally, physical therapy to address scar tissue could provide relief. Wearing well-fitted compression garments might also reduce irritation from clothing.

I hope this helps guide you toward the relief you need.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Stanley Okoro, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I am sorry to hear your having pain after your body lift procedure. You may want to be evaluated by the surgeon who performed your procedure, as there are multiple follow up questions your surgeon will want to ask you about your pain. It may be smart during the time up until your appointment to keep a record when you are experiencing the pain, what makes the pain better, more detail with what makes the pain better. Because you have had this pain for so long, your plastic surgeon may refer you to a pain management specialist.

360 body lift, all looks great after 3 years. I still have severe pain on the both sides my body.

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360 body lift, all looks great after 3 years. I still have severe pain on the both sides my body.

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Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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