Jeff Zwiren, MD

Improved Back Pain Following Tummy Tuck Surgery

 It is common to misdiagnose back pain that actually originates from a weaking of the abdominal muscles.  This type of pain is characterized by a inward curvature of the lower spine with point tenderness.  In many cases an abdominoplasty will improve this type of pain.  

An abdominoplasty with repair of the separation or widening of the gap between the rectus abdominis muscles may help to alleviate some types of back pain. Pain, in and of itself is sometime difficult to properly diagnose. Relief of back pain should not be your primary goal in undergoing a tummy tuck, but many are pleased when it does in fact get better

Think of the lower abdomen as an internal corset. The muscles of the abdomen are interconnected with the internal and external oblique muscles. It is this muscular arrangement that gives the back it support and properly rotates the pelvis. The type of back pain most frequently associated with a loose abdominal wall is in the lower lumbar spine. The medical condition is known as kyphosis. After a tummy tuck with tightening of the fascia, patients literally have a more secure support structure.

It is well known that that having strong tight abdominal muscles improves low back pain and the tendency toward lordosis (concave back and protrusion of the belly). Interestingly, after tummy tuck procedures, patients note they get full more quickly after eating, also probably a result of having a tighter abdominal fascia.

And of course after any plastic surgery it is necessary to be on a good diet and exercise program. The tummy tuck will improve only the resting tone of the abdomen. It will not strengthen the muscles at all. With proper exercise these core muscles can be toned adding to the benefits of the procedure. Patients should never rely on plastic surgery as a substitute for good exercise and eating habits.

There is good medical evidence to support the claim that an abdominoplasty will help with back pain. It is equally important to rule out any other causes of back pain such as a ruptured disc or pinched nerve. Clearly, if there is an anatomic problem with your spine or back, an abdominoplasty will not help.

With proper diagnosis and a good surgical plan most patients can expect improvement. It is important to know what will be helped and what is beyond the scope of the operation.

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