I’m 3 weeks post tummy tuck, can I drink caffeine or will it stimulate swelling?

I know of no studies indicating that caffeine has ill effects on tummy tuck recovery.  Recommend that you drink caffeinated beverages in moderation as too much caffeine can make you feel tired and increase your risk for dehydration.Kenneth Hughes, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Thank you for your question! It is safe to drink caffeine at 3 weeks post surgery, however I recommend discussing specific post op instructions with your plastic surgeon. 

Dear castaflo2000,Thank you for your question. It is always best to check with your surgeon, but in my practice there is no problem in having some caffeine 3 weeks after surgery. It should not meaningfully contribute to any swelling you have.Best regards,Nirmal R. Nathan, M.D.Certified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Dear castaflo2000,
every plastic surgeon has his own postoperative protocol which he recommends to his patients. I would suggest you to discuss this with your plastic surgeon.
Daniel Barrett, MD

Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  After three weeks there should be no increased risk from your procedure, including swelling.  Enjoy that first cup!

Some swelling fluctuation at your stage in recovery is to be expected; this will not be effected by drinking caffeinated drinks.  Often, patients will report that the swelling increases as their activity level increases and gets worse later on in the day. Sometimes, the use of compressive garments may be helpful to control the edema. Best wishes.

Caffeine will not hurt you. Go ahead have your cup of coffee. It will not increase your swelling at all.

Different recovery protocols are present for different patients. On average 3 weeks after surgery is early to the make a decision on ones final result. However, drinking caffeine in general is allowed at 3 weeks.  

Thanks for the question, I do not impose any dietary restrictions on my patients after a tummy tuck. I let them enjoy their coffee. I would discuss your case with your surgeon because your case could be special or different. Hope this helps.
Jeffrey R. Claiborne, MD
Certified: American Board of Plastic Surgery
Certified: SAFELipo Plastic Surgery Provider
Member: RealSelf Hall of Fame, RealSelf 

You can absolutely have caffeine after surgery! Caffeine is actually a diuretic, which means it will stimulate fluid loss. Drinking plenty of water is always a healthy thing, but a little caffeine will be fine!