Is it normal to still feel tightness 9 months post-op from tummy tuck?

Question

Hi I’m 9 months post op full tummy tuck with muscle repair and lipo I’m 56 years old and pretty fit my question is although my TT looks amazing I still have several episodes of tightness that only thing that helps is to wear my binder again this happens often, I’ll go few weeks with maybe once this happens then I’ll have a week of tightness Is this normal thank you

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  Yes it may be possible to still have episodes of tightness 9 months after surgery but the frequency and severity of the episodes should be improving.

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @Magical479716 thank you for your question. Yes, is possible to feel the symptoms you are describing 9 months after a tummy tuck procedure. Keep in mind that the healing process takes from 9 to 12 months and from that perspective and follow doctor recommendations. Best wishes!

Casey Anderson, MD, FACS · Answer

This is normal. Most surgeons do a muscle repair that can continue to feel tight for quite a long time. It's nothing dangerous and you won't cause an issues.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Magical479716,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Gilbert Lee, MD · Answer

congratulations on your tummy tuck and thank you for your questions. The muscle repair that is done during a tummy tuck can cause the feeling of significant tightness. I strongly recommend you schedule an appointment with the surgeon who did your case if you have concerns. They know exactly what was done during your surgery and give you guidance. Good luck!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Occasional tightness can be experienced nine months after a tummy tuck.  Typically these episodes will get further apart over time and will not impact your results.  Be sure to discuss your concerns with your surgeon to rule out any potential issues.

Anmol Chugh, MBBS, MS, MCh · Answer

It can take upto an year in some cases for swelling or tightness to subside. Usually binder support helps along with massage. Do get a physical examination done by your nearest plastic surgeon to rule out any other issue.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

An aggressive tummy tech is a substantial change on your body and can leave patients with the symptoms you describe it.

Generally speaking most patients get used to the new body as being normal and the sensations diminish overtime.

There is a little that can be done from a surgical perspective once the procedure has been performed.

Best,

Mats Hagstrom MD

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