5 months post op Tummy Tuck, pubic swelling (Ken doll syndrome). Is this much swelling at this stage normal? (photo)

Question

I am 21 weeks post op & still have a great deal of swelling from my BB to my pubic area.The area is very firm & gets larger as the day goes on.(the pics are in the a.m.)I'm using spanks or my compression garment. My surgeon doesnt seem concerned but everything I read says most of the swelling should be gone by now. Is this normal? Does hypothyroidism have anything to do with prolonged swelling? Would a water pill hinder my healing, or should I try that? Is there anything else i can do?

James Murphy, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

As it get worse over the course of the day, it is undoubtedly swelling rather than fat. It's is very difficult to predict how quickly this will resolve but the way you look in the morning is the way you will look all the time, eventually. If you are happy with that, be patient. Compression can help, as can massage but I would certainly leave things alone for now and trust your surgeons advice.

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

Although most patients have resolved their swelling at this point, every patient heals differently.  I have seen this many times and it has always resolved.  It is not possible to predict how long it will take.  You should not do things that provoke the swelling, that will  just prolong the process.  Compression is also helpful.  There is no use for water pills.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Swelling can last as long as 6 months postop. The fact that it gets worse as the day progresses indicates that it is still swelling. I would follow your plastic surgeon's advice.

5 months post op Tummy Tuck, pubic swelling (Ken doll syndrome). Is this much swelling at this stage normal? (photo)

Answers (3)

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5 months post op Tummy Tuck, pubic swelling (Ken doll syndrome). Is this much swelling at this stage normal? (photo)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.