I had a left breast mastectomy and reconstruction, using tummy tissue, in October 2020. I was slim so the closure was very tight but I could walk upright after around 8 or 10 days and I did all the post-op physio recommended. I've kept asking about the abdominal tightness/tugging, around the permanent stitches the surgeon added to the muscle fascia (below, and to the right of, the scar), and have been told that because I was slim, fit, and had never had children, that it could take 18 months to 2 years to ease off.
But it seems to be getting 'tighter' (16 months post-op) - to the point where I'm aware of it all the time now, not only when I move around or turn over in bed. And it seems to be having an effect on my back and making that ache. Maybe because I'm compensating by using my back more because of the abdominal discomfort? Or maybe because the tightness in the abdomen is stressing other muscles? Or could it be scar tissue?
I saw my surgeon last in Oct 2021 and I could ask to see her again, maybe ask for an MRI to check everything is okay. Or maybe see a physio for some targeted exercises. I run a couple of times a week and do lots of stretching after each one already.
But hearing from someone who's familiar with this would be helpful/encouraging.
Thank you.
