When you have a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), you take a major step toward reaching your goal of a flatter, more toned abdomen. However, the recovery process can be challenging. You may have some side effects related to your surgery, and one of these is developing a cough.
At Sarasota Surgical Arts, Dr. Alberico Sessa and his team understand your concerns about post-operative symptoms like coughing. That’s why we’ll explain the potential causes of coughing after a tummy tuck and give you some practical care tips to help you manage this symptom.
What Causes Coughing After A Tummy Tuck
Developing a cough after a tummy tuck is relatively common and can be caused by several factors, including:
- Anesthesia Effects: General anesthesia, used during tummy tuck procedures, can cause side effects such as a sore throat or coughing as your body flushes out the anesthesia gases.
- Intubation Irritation: The insertion of a breathing tube during surgery may cause throat irritation, which can result in coughing during your initial recovery phase.
- Post-Nasal Drip: Lying flat during surgery can cause mucus to build up in your throat, leading to post-nasal drip and coughing.
- Respiratory Infections: Exposure to hospital environments or a weakened immune system post-surgery can increase your chances of respiratory infections, which may cause coughing.
Why Managing Coughing Is Important
While coughing is a natural reflex, it’s essential to manage it carefully after a tummy tuck so you can avoid complications like:
- Strain on Incisions: Forceful coughing can put pressure on your abdominal incisions and sutures, potentially affecting how quickly you heal.
- Discomfort: Coughing can worsen post-operative pain and discomfort in the abdominal area.
Care Tips To Manage Coughing After A Tummy Tuck
To minimize coughing and support a smooth recovery, you can try some of the following tips:
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of fluids helps keep your throat moist and can improve coughing. Drink at least eight glasses of water daily.
- Use a Humidifier: Using a humidifier in your recovery area can be beneficial since adding moisture to the air can soothe your irritated airways.
- Practice Gentle Coughing: If you need to cough, do so gently. Supporting your abdomen with a pillow can help reduce strain on the surgical site.
- Avoid Irritants: Stay away from smoke, strong perfumes, and other irritants that can trigger a coughing fit.
- Follow Post-Operative Instructions: To promote healing, follow all post-operative care guidelines provided by Dr. Sessa and the Sarasota Surgical Arts team.
- Monitor for Infections: Watch for signs of respiratory infections, such as fever or a continuing cough. If you develop these symptoms, contact Dr. Sessa.
When To Seek Medical Attention
While mild coughing is common, you may need to see a doctor immediately to deal with more severe symptoms, including:
- Persistent or Severe Coughing: If you can’t quit coughing or it gets more intense, consult Dr. Sessa.
- Signs of Infection: You should immediately report fever, chills, or unusual discharge from the incision site.
- Breathing Difficulties: Shortness of breath or chest pain requires urgent medical evaluation.
Turn To Sarasota Surgical Arts For Your Post-Tummy Tuck Concerns
Remember, a successful recovery involves attentive care and open communication with your surgical team. Dr. Alberico Sessa and the Sarasota Surgical Arts staff are here to support you every step of the way.
At Sarasota Surgical Arts, your health and comfort are our top priorities. If you have concerns about coughing or any other post-operative symptoms following your tummy tuck, please don’t hesitate to call us at (941) 313-7746.
