"muffin top" after colon removal surgery

I am 71 years old and weigh 144 lbs.  I have always had a flat tummy until now.  I had emergency colon removal (about 1/3 of my colon).  My incision is from my bikini line up through my naval.  Is it possible to get my "flat tummy" again and if so, what are my options?  Tummy tuck?  I know exercise.  Colon cleanse? Any suggestions and how to go about this in stages, if appropriate.

At night after I have had an active day with my small greatgrandchild, the left side of my incision is red and is more swollen.  

Thank you for your help.

[Kevin Pho, MD]

This is more of a surgical question, so my insight into this may be limited.

There is no evidence to any efficacy with a colon cleanse, and it is unlikely to help with your symptoms.

Questions about the incision, and evaluation for possible infection, should be discussed with your surgeon.

Regarding the "flat tummy" question, if the tests remain negative, a plastic surgeon can be consulted to discuss the treatment options.

This answer is not intended as and does not substitute for medical advice - the information presented is for patient education only. Please see your personal physician for further evaluation of your individual case.

Kevin Pho, M.D.

KevinMD.com
Twitter.com/kevinmd

[turtlela]

Hi,
I am a 40 yr old who had a 8 inches of my colon removed due to a punctured colon during a routine colonoscopy done the beginning of April 2009.  I have the same exact problem as you.  My swelling seems to be more focused above my belly button and more on the left side.  The swelling is somewhat harder than my normal "belly fat" (I am about 15 lbs overweight).  I had a cat scan to see if I had infection or a pocket of fluid but it came back normal.  The swelling seems worse at the end of the day and my abdomen feels "tight".  I also get the red scar line.  Did you happen to have any lymph nodes removed?  The removed 3 of mine and I worry I am experiencing lymphedema of the abdomen.  My doctor doesn't think so b/c he said the swelling would leave an indentation when pushed on which mine doesn't.  However, he stressed he didn't "think so".  He said this can happen even when they don't remove lymph nodes b/c the nodes can be damaged during any abdominal surgery but it is very rare.  I hope this resolves itself for both of us over time.  Let me know if you are doing any better.