Why Are my Legs Swollen Weeks After Tummy Tuck?

It is NOT normal to have significantly swollen legs a month after a tummy tuck. The greatest serious risk of abdominoplasty surgery is blood clots in the leg veins and this can show up as leg swelling. Have your doctor check you for this with an ultrasound exam of the veins to be sure you don't have any clots. Otherwise, wear support stockings and be sure you aren't wearing an abdominal binder that is too tight.

It is extremely unusual to have leg swelling almost 9 months after a tummy tuck.  Swelling may be due to obstruction of your lymphatics or from clots in the legs Either way, you should be examined by your doctor, and maybe by a vascular surgeon.

I am very concerned. My initial thought is that the lymph system that drains fluid from your legs (the system connected to lymph nodes that exists throughout your body) has been disrupted. I have never seen this with a tummy tuck. You may need to have aggressive treatment for lymphedema including compression and elevation. I would look for providers in your area with experience with lymphedema. Perhaps call the general surgery department or plastic surgery department at the closest... more

One of the key elements in preventing leg swelling is to walk frequently (6-8 times per week for 10-15 minutes each time) and not lay in a dependent manner (have your legs elevated). Also, if you have had liposuction and you’re wearing a garment it is good to take the garment off for at least 24-48 hours. If you have asymmetric leg swelling or pain in your calf or thigh then you need to have it evaluated as soon as possible with your doctor to rule out a deep venous thrombosis (DVT). more

Swelling in the lower extremities after a tummy tuck is possible. The most important thing is to have your plastic surgeon evaluate you to make sure that the swelling is not dangerous or caused by clots in your leg. This is especially important if the swelling is below the knee. If your surgeon suspects a clot, ultrasound and blood work may need to be done immediately. If a clot is not responsible, he or she may recommend special garments, a change in your diet or medication. Do not... more

You want to make sure that both your leg veins and your lymphatic system are working properly. I suspect that because your thighs are swollen, that this is probably a lymphatic issue. It can happen that your superficial lymphatic system is somewhat compromised after the surgery; some people also have a lymphatic system that is not 100% and they notice a difference after surgery. I agree the best thing to do is to consult a vascular surgeon who can examine you and make sure that... more