How physical examination shows that muscle tightening is done as part of full tummy tuck? what should i feel during this examination ?

Pre-op exam: Is done with you lying down, and lifting your head up to contract your abdominal muscles. You should be able to feel each muscle. If there is a gap in between, this represents the muscle separation. It might be 2-3 fingerbreadth's wide. This is what is repaired in a full tummy tuck, and should be gone postoperatively.

Sit up: Checking for the integrity of the abdominal wall involves either laying back and doing a sit up or standing and bearing down. This also checks for any hernias.

Tight abs: If you had a muscle separation (diastasis), then after your muscles are tightened, you will no longer feel the gap between the muscles. You may experience tightness in your midline for 6-12 months after surgery. Over time you should feel normal as he muscles heal and relax. Some patients who are very thin, may feel some sutures under their skin, but this is very unlikely.

Side view: The best way to see the difference in your tummy muscle tightening is by comparing the side shots. You should have a much slimmer flatter profile when comparing the before and afters.

Test your ab muscles: You can test your abdominal muscles by laying on your back and lifting your head. If you see an abdominal bulge, your muscles are separated. http://www.drschulmanplasticsurgery.com/body/tummy-tuck/.

Postop: You should no longer have a "depression" at the midline on a situp movement.

Seek Consult: The abdominal wall muscles tend to spread with pregnancy and/or weight gain/loss. These muscles are re approximated for most patients undergoing tummy tuck surgery. Findings on physical examination consistent with abdominal wall “diastasis” include abdominal wall laxity/ protuberance of the abdominal wall. Best to seek consultation with board-certified plastic surgeons to discuss in detail.