Extreme swelling with shooting nerve pain & large blister 8 months post-op - have you seen this before? (Photos)

I encourage you to return to your surgeon promptly for an examination. From your description and photos it may be an infection. Your surgeon will guide you on the next steps after an evaluation.

Thank you for your question regarding extreme swelling with shooting nerve pain and large blister eight months after your tummy tuck. I suggest you follow up with your plastic surgeon. It could be a collection of fluid like a seroma. This may also require an ultrasound to determine if there is a pocket of fluid. It could also be that you are rejecting or the permanent suture is infected. Permanent sutures are typically used to plicate or bring in the six-pack abdominal muscles. You may have developed a reaction to the suture and are trying to reject it. Finally, the shooting nerve pain may be due to the swelling. If the area is swollen, I would suggest compression. Therefore a tight-fit compression garment is in order til you re-consult with your plastic surgeon—thankyou you for your question regarding shooting nerve pain and swelling eight months after a tummy tuck.
Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

You need to call your surgeon and be seen quickly. You may need antibiotics and may need to be drained. Please don't delay.