Abdominoplasty post op
I am 24 days out from having a fleur-de-lis abdominoplasty. My incision looks great. Almost completely healed. However, I am still having so much muscle pain. I feel like I am bothering my doctors office so I thought I would reach out here. I know I am supposed to be on light activity but I have a 2 & 4 year old and a full time office job. Of ALL the things I do sitting (upright) causes the swelling and pain which is keeping me from going back to work. Is this normal? How long can I expect to have such pain when sitting?
Thank you
Thanks for the question. In general, it takes between 4 to 6 week to recovery from an abdominoplasty. Discomfort and swelling within that time frame are not uncommon. Limiting your activities will help to decrease inflammation that may cause swelling and discomfort. Be sure to follow up with your surgeon to be sure the swelling is not a fluid collection (seroma) under the skin. Hopefully you have someone helping you with the two children, we all certainly understand their demands on a parent's time.
Do not feel like you are imposing on your doctor. He or she is the best to address your surgery related pain and discomfort issues. I have my patients take muscle relaxants after surgery and place them in a compression garment for 6 weeks. If you are pretty active with work and kids, you will have prolonged swelling and discomfort. It is also normal to feel somewhat down and tired after major surgery. You will have good days and bad days, but with time the good days prevail. Hope this helps, and "bother" your doctor. Good luck.