Symptoms of Muscle Separation after Tummy Tuck

A tummy tuck is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes excess skin and fat from the abdominal area, resulting in a flatter and firmer midsection. However, like any surgical procedure, a tummy tuck carries risks and potential complications. One of the most common complications after a tummy tuck is muscle separation, also known as diastasis recti. In this article, we’ll explore the symptoms of muscle separation after a tummy tuck, the warning signs to look out for, and the available treatment options.

What is Muscle Separation?

Muscle separation, or diastasis recti, is a condition that occurs when the two vertical muscles in the abdominal wall separate or pull apart. This separation can lead to a visible bulge in the midsection and cause weakness in the abdominal muscles. Muscle separation is a common occurrence during pregnancy, but it can also occur after a tummy tuck surgery.

Symptoms of Muscle Separation after Tummy Tuck

If you’ve had a tummy tuck surgery, it’s important to be aware of the symptoms of muscle separation. Some common symptoms include:

1. A visible bulge in the midsection: This is one of the most noticeable symptoms of muscle separation. The bulge may be more pronounced when you’re standing or performing any activities that engage your abdominal muscles.
2. Weakness in the abdominal muscles: If you feel like you’re unable to perform basic activities that require core strength, such as lifting or bending, it may be a sign of muscle separation.
3. Lower back pain: Muscle separation can put additional strain on the lower back muscles, leading to pain and discomfort.
4. Digestive issues: Muscle separation can affect the digestive system, leading to issues such as bloating, constipation, and gas.
5. Difficulty breathing: In severe cases, muscle separation can put pressure on the diaphragm, making it difficult to breathe properly.

Warning Signs of Muscle Separation after Tummy Tuck

In addition to the symptoms listed above, there are some warning signs that may indicate muscle separation after a tummy tuck. These warning signs include:

1. The appearance of a new bulge in the midsection: If you notice a new bulge in your abdomen that wasn’t present before the surgery, it could be a sign of muscle separation.
2. The separation of the abdominal muscles: If you’re able to feel a gap or separation between your abdominal muscles, it’s a clear indication of muscle separation.
3. Pain or discomfort in the midsection: If you experience any pain or discomfort in your midsection after the surgery, it could be a sign of muscle separation.
4. A change in bowel habits: If you notice any changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea, it could be a sign of muscle separation.

Treatment Options for Muscle Separation after Tummy Tuck

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms or warning signs of muscle separation after a tummy tuck, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. Here are some of the available treatment options:

1. Physical therapy: In some cases, physical therapy may be enough to treat muscle separation. A physical therapist can provide you with exercises to help strengthen your abdominal muscles and improve your posture.
2. Surgery: If physical therapy isn’t enough to treat muscle separation, surgery may be necessary. A surgeon can perform a procedure called abdominoplasty revision, which involves repairing the separation of the abdominal muscles and restoring the appearance of the midsection.
3. Non-surgical treatments: There are some non-surgical treatments that may be effective in treating muscle separation. These include ultrasound therapy, laser therapy, and radiofrequency therapy. These treatments work by stimulating the production of collagen and elastin, which can help to tighten and firm the skin and muscles in the abdominal area.

Preventing Muscle Separation after Tummy Tuck

While muscle separation can occur after a tummy tuck, there are some steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing this condition. Here are some tips:

1. Choose a qualified and experienced surgeon: Make sure you choose a surgeon who is board-certified and has extensive experience performing tummy tucks.
2. Follow your surgeon’s instructions: Your surgeon will provide you with specific instructions on how to care for your incisions and how to prevent complications. It’s important to follow these instructions carefully to reduce your risk of developing muscle separation.
3. Avoid strenuous activities: According to studies, It’s essential to avoid any activities that may put additional strain on your abdominal muscles for at least six weeks after the surgery.
4. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can put additional pressure on your abdominal muscles and increase your risk of developing muscle separation. Maintaining a healthy weight can help to reduce your risk of developing this condition.

Conclusion

Muscle separation after a tummy tuck is a common complication, but it can be treated with the right care and attention. If you’re experiencing any symptoms or warning signs of muscle separation, it’s important to seek treatment as soon as possible. By following the right routine, you can reduce your risk of developing muscle separation, can avoid the worst days after the tummy tuck, and enjoy the full benefits of your tummy tuck surgery.