Increased Swelling Above the Incision Normal After Tummy Tuck?

Intermittent swelling above the incision after a tummy tuck may last for several months. You will notice that in the morning, after waking, your abdomen looks flatter. As the day goes on, the body circulates fluid and it builds up just above the incision because that is the lowest part of the operated area (much like a gutter). The incision acts as a wall or dam because the lymphatic drainage has yet to reconnect across it and allow drainage downward. You will continue to improve and... more

For several months after an abdominoplasty there is a tendency for swelling right above the incision. This is because the normal lymphatic circulation has been disrupted and fluid accumulates in the tissues. Over time the connections reform and the swelling should resolve. I tell my patients to expect about 4 months for this to happen.

While swelling at this stage is not unusual, if you are concerned, you should contact your surgeon regardless of the day of the week. Your surgeon would rather hear about a potential problem sooner rather than later anyway. Good luck.

It is common to have swelling in this area after this type of procedure. the incision interupts the small veins in the area which drain fluid within the skin. It takes weeks to months for these to restore themselves so. In this period of time, compression or massage helps to move this swelling out. Fluid pressure can also be uncomfortable. This is normal as well.

Following an Abdominoplasty swelling just above the incision may be perfectly normal.  Initially, it may be the result of a collection of fluid call a "seroma".  Once this is ruled out then it is probably normal.  Swelling above the incision may last for 2-3 months so don't be alarmed.

Hi.  This sounds worrisome and you should call your surgeon right away.  Swelling normally decreases with time after an abdominoplasty. In Manhattan, we would probably do a sonogram to see if you have a hematoma or seroma that needs to be drained.

Hi, This may be the normal swelling that occurs after a tummy tuck, or it may represent fluid accumulation beneath the skin and fat. If you noticed an increase and you are just 2 weeks out from surgery, I would recommend calling your surgeon's office to see if you can go in for an evaluation. If it is fluid, this can be easily and painlessly drained in the office for you, and you'll notice an immediate difference. If there is no fluid, you will at least experience some reassurance from... more

Most commonly an acute swelling above the incision soon after tummy tuck is a seroma or hematoma which should be evacuated. Longer term, after 6 -8 weeks, swelling above the incision can be caused by scar contraction beneath the skin. In either event, see your doctor. Both of these situations can be remedied.