Is it normal to be very swollen, 6 weeks after tummy tuck and lipo?

Question

Drainage is pink in color coming fro small opening in incision stomach is still very swollen and feels like it is full of fluid

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Swelling can persist for several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months, six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area and the scrotal and penis area for men can become very swollen and discolored during the first two weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate. You can return to full activity without restrictions at 6 weeks.It may take several months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to settle.These can be improved with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma. Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow with products such as Embrace.  On occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.As questions arise with the healing process, regarding swelling, scars, infections or others, it is always best to visit your surgeon to have the area examined and make sure that healing is progressing as it should. There is always the potential for a problem and your own surgeon knows your personal case the best and can give the most experienced advice. Good luck.

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point (6 weeks post-po) the swelling have to be minimal.To reduce it, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.Kind regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

A.K. Bhattacharya, MD, FACS · Answer

It is normal to still be a bit swollen 6 weeks after a Tummy Tuck, especially in the morning or after exercise.  It is not normal to have any fluid draining at this point.  You most likely have developed a Seroma that needs to be drained.  Please see your Plastic Surgeon to address this issue.  Best Wishes,

Dr. B.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is a bit unusual to have fluid draining from your abdominoplasty 6 weeks after surgery.  You should be evaluated in person by your surgeon.

Is it normal to be very swollen, 6 weeks after tummy tuck and lipo?

Answers (4)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Is it normal to be very swollen, 6 weeks after tummy tuck and lipo?

Answers (4)

Answer: Seroma

Answer: Seroma

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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