I had a full tummy tuck in 2019, and in 2021 I started playing tennis again (no longer playing because of this issue now)—about four to five days a week. After a while, I began experiencing hip pain, along with a lot of tightness in my IT band, hip flexor, and groin area. At first, I thought it might be a bone issue. An MRI confirmed I have arthritis and some hip degeneration, but the discomfort felt more like extreme tightness in the tendons running down my leg into my knee.
I’ve tried everything—physical therapy, massage therapy, chiropractic care—but nothing has fully resolved it. My orthopedic surgeon is recommending a hip replacement, but I’m only 50, and it doesn’t feel like that would address the root of the problem. The tightness is intense and persistent.
I’ve started to wonder if this could be related to my tummy tuck. It was a very aggressive procedure, and I couldn’t stand up straight for at least four to five months afterward. Even now, I still feel incredibly tight—almost like I’m wearing a corset constantly, especially in the front where the muscle repair was done. It does not damper my everyday like like the issues with my leg.
Despite all of this, I absolutely love my tummy tuck. It was the best decision I’ve ever made, even though it was hands down the most painful experience I’ve ever gone through. I’d do it again in a heartbeat.
Has anyone else experienced something similar? I’d love to hear if others have dealt with lingering tightness or hip issues after a tummy tuck. I am just trying to figure out if this could have caused some of my issues I am having or not. Trying to find answers because I want to be active again!