Abdominal Tightness After DIEP Flap Surgery
DIEP flap breast reconstruction uses skin and fat from the lower abdomen to recreate a warm, soft, natural breast following a mastectomy.
Because a portion of tummy tissue is removed and transplanted to the chest wall during this procedure, most patients experience some degree of abdominal tightness following surgery as the abdominal skin stretches to its “new normal.”
Thinner patients who do not have a significant amount of tummy tissue may experience a prolonged period of abdominal tightness. This is due to the suturing technique we use that allows us to keep the incision scar lower on the abdomen.
To help alleviate post surgery abdominal tightness, scar massage and scar creams can be used to minimize and soften the abdominal scar. This should only be performed once all incisions are completely healed and patients are given the approval from their surgeon.
Ultimately, abdominal tightness usually improves as the scar tissue matures.
Author: Courtney Floyd and Dr. Ramon Garza III
Because a portion of tummy tissue is removed and transplanted to the chest wall during this procedure, most patients experience some degree of abdominal tightness following surgery as the abdominal skin stretches to its “new normal.”
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Christine Rush
I had my surgery in 2012. Had somewhat small ‘pooch’ in my lower abdomen. When the PS examined my lower abdomen, he commented ‘I can work with this’. My lower abdomen remains uncomfortably tight/tense…feels like my pubic area has been pulled up way too much. I’ve been seeing a PT for lymphedema therapy. I also have a hardened/misshapen DIEP flap to my right breast. The PT has been using laser and ultrasound to try and break up the hardened tissue on my breast & has recently started working on my lower abdomen…hope this works.
Worried
When I read comments like the one above, it reassures my fears of Diep flap. I had horrible damage done to my chest with implants that failed. I’m still in pain and in PT. My bones are sticking out. I think I’m backing out of this surgery.
I just want to heal and live my life beyond breast cancer. Thanks for sharing
PRMA Plastic Surgery
Christine, we are so sorry to hear you have been through so much. At PRMA, our board-certified plastic surgeons routinely perform DIEP flap on patients who have had failed implant surgery at other institutions. We would be more than happy to evaluate your needs and provide you with our medical recommendations upon consultation. Please feel free to complete our virtual consultation form here: https://prma-enhance.com/schedule-a-consultation/.