How do I know if the swelling has subsided from Tummy Tuck?

It had been 12 days since my Tummy Tuck and I can't fit into my jeans yet. Is this normal? I thought I would be smaller. I don't have the roll of fat I use to have, so how can I tell if its swollen or if this is it? I've been wearing my husband's sweatpants, and I'm hoping I can start wearing my normal clothes. Thanks for any information you can give me.

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2 answers to “How do I know if the swelling has...”

A: Tummy Tuck and Swelling

Farbod Esmailian, MD

12 days is very early on and it takes about 4 months before a lot of the swelling has subsided.  So it is hard to say if you have fluid collection (seroma) or something else is going. I would advise you to see your plastic surgeon and have him or her address your concerns.

A: Swelling after Tummy Tuck

Steven H. Williams, MD

Thanks for your question - It is common to have abdominal swelling after abdominoplasty. Abdominal contour is dependent on: Skin envelope Abdominal fat (subcutaneous and intrabdominal) Muscles tightness Intrinsic Swelling Fluid collections Skin Envelope - People complaining of "abdominal bulge" after tummy... more

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