Heaviness in stomach after tummy tuck on 10/21/22, is this normal? (Photos)

Question

Hello, I have felt a "tightness/heaviness" in my stomach since my Tummy Tuck on 10/21/22 is this normal? I also feel like my belly has gotten puffier/swollen, although I'm told by others it looks fine. I've been unable to find a surgeon to see me as I had my surgery out of the country. I've had my primary refer me for a sonogram. There is no fluid. Does anyone know of a surgeon who would do a consultation, virtual or in-person? Thank you

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Follow up appointments are so important in surgical recovery.  It's difficult to know what may be the issue without an examination and/or more information.  If you are unable to find a surgeon to see you in the US I suggest contacting your surgeon for a phone or video appointment.  You may want to see if it is GI related as well.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Crybaby2022,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Zoran Potparic, MD · Answer

Based on these photos but without your before photos to compare, I would say that you have nice early result. Your scars are fresh and in some areas hypertrophic; for that reason you should use silicone tapes to flatten and improve current scars, if you have not done so. It appears that liposuction of the abdomen, after tissues mature (give it al least 1 year after surgery) would be a reasonable way to further improve your result. Good luck.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Tightness is normal since your muscles were tightened and excess skin was removed. An examination is needed to be certain, but if you have some excess fat, liposuction could be done and might help with the heaviness feeling.  Otherwise, weight loss could help both issues.  You can always contact your surgeon virtually and discuss your concerns.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Appears you have excess sub dermal fat needing liposuction. Expect fee $5,000+.  Best virtual consult with ….

Heaviness in stomach after tummy tuck on 10/21/22, is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tightness

Answer: Tightness

Answer: Post TT issues?

Answer: Post TT issues?

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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Heaviness in stomach after tummy tuck on 10/21/22, is this normal? (Photos)

Answers (6)

Answer: Tightness

Answer: Tightness

Answer: Post TT issues?

Answer: Post TT issues?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck Revision

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