Need to cough after TT

I asked this on the ps board but only got one response so I thought I'd ask it here where you guys could give me your advice on this. I really need to cough but I'm afraid of tearing the stomach muscle stitches so I keep trying to stifle my coughing. I'm drinking water and sucking on mints to keep from coughing but I do need to cough. I've placed a pillow on my stomach and tried to cough that way but it's mostly numb so really can't tell if that will work or not. I would think that the muscles are stitched very securely but I am so afraid of pulling them loose. I don't mind the pain that comes with the coughing it's just the stitching that I'm afraid of messing up. Sorry if this sounds like a stupid question but I am having no troubles at all with my TT and BR/BL procedures that were done on 12-15, pulled out my pain pump this morning and my drains are slowing down, have slept in my bed from 1st day home on 12-16, almost standing upright already, everything looks good but I'm afraid of pulling something loose inside. Thanks for any advice.

I had a TT in 1999. I used to cough with a pillow over my tummy and bend over forward as far as you can, into the pillow. But, the stitches are in really tight, and you will be fine! If you need to cough, go ahead. Just don't over do it. 3-5 good coughs a day would be good, if necessary. I remember I was standing up straight in 3 days. It really wasn't that bad. They tightened my muscles too. I slept in the recliner for a few weeks though. I just couldn't get comfortable in the bed. I sleep on my back a lot more than I used to. But there's nothing like being able to lay on your tummy again. You're in for a treat! Hope all goes well. Good luck and God Bless! Hugs Sharee

Thanks Sharee! The nurse in recovery said that I needed to cough in order to keep my lungs clear anyway so I better just give in to it.

Hi Pam, I havent had a TT yet...but I do know that with ANY surgery you NEED to cough...to clear your lungs...Just brace yourself with a pillow...The stitches are tight, and you shouldn't have a problem with them. You don't want to end up with pneumonia... Good Luck, and congratulations with getting your plastics done...I am only two months out so I have a ways to go before I get to that point... Amy

Thanks Amy, I'm sure that's what the nurse meant about coughing.