A tummy tuck, also known as abdominoplasty, is a surgical procedure that involves removing excess skin and fat from the abdominal area and tightening the muscles to create a smoother and firmer appearance. This procedure is commonly performed on people who have lost a significant amount of weight or women who have experienced significant changes in their body shape due to pregnancy.


Torn internal stitches can occur after a tummy tuck when the stitches used to close the incision site or repair the abdominal muscles become damaged or break. This can be caused by a variety of factors, such as excessive strain on the muscles, an infection, or trauma to the surgical site.


Symptoms of torn internal stitches after a tummy tuck may include:


Pain: Patients may experience significant pain or discomfort in the abdominal area, which may be more severe than the typical post-operative pain.


Swelling: Swelling and inflammation of the abdominal area may occur, and it may be more significant than what is expected during the typical healing process.


Skin Irregularities: Torn internal stitches can also cause skin irregularities, such as dimpling or puckering of the skin. These may be more noticeable when the patient stands or bends over.


Loose Skin: If the internal stitches used to tighten the abdominal muscles become torn, the skin in the area may become loose or saggy.


Atrophic Scars: Torn internal stitches can cause atrophic scars, which are sunken scars that appear below the surrounding skin.


Fluid Collection: A collection of fluid may also occur in the abdominal area, which can cause swelling, pain, and discomfort.


Redness of Skin: In some cases, the skin around the surgical site may become red, swollen, and warm to the touch, indicating an infection or inflammation.


It is important to contact your surgeon immediately if you experience any of these symptoms after a tummy tuck, as torn internal stitches can cause serious complications if left untreated. Your surgeon can evaluate your condition and determine the appropriate course of treatment to address the issue.