Should my upper stomach still be swollen at 10 weeks post tummy tuck at the end of the day?

Question

By the end of the day my stomach pops out at the top pretty far out. I'm 10 weeks post surgery and had a 3 inch gap repaired. I'm actually more swollen now than the past 9 weeks. Is this normal? Should I still be wearing compression?

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

It is perfectly normal to have numbness or swelling after a tummy tuck which is expected to slowly have sensation return to normal after many months and even years following your surgery. Although uncommon, permanent numbness and tingling can occur after tummy tuck surgery, especially in the lower mid line area between the scar and belly button. In most cases there is some sensation present, just not the normal pre-surgical amount. Please speak with your plastic surgeon about your concerns. #tummytucknumbness #tummytuckpost-op

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

hello,While swelling from Tummy Tuck surgery can persist for many months and temporarily return after an increase in activity, increasing discomfort or unusual swelling at this point should be reported to your Plastic Surgeon so that they can investigate the cause.All the best!

Joubin Gabbay, MD · Answer

Swelling can occur for several months after surgery. From what you described, it is difficult to tell if this is normal or something that would be of concern. I certainly recommend that you seek the advice of your surgeon, Giving him an opportunity to examine you and give you a more straightforward answer. I wish you the best. Dr. Gabbay.

Jeffrey M. Darrow, MD · Answer

Only a in person examination could give you a meaningful answer to your question.  There is always some swelling after a TT which gradually subsides over 9-12 months.  If your swelling is in 1 specific spot, you should follow up with your plastic surgeon, who knows exactly what was done and is in the best position to tell you what to expect and to follow you.

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Without any photos it is difficult to say. Typically it takes a full 3 months for swelling to settle. It is best to address your concerns with your chosen surgeon. Best of luck.

John A. Kotis, DO, FACS, FACOS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  When your abdomen is more swollen later
 in the day, the cause is usually just soft tissue swelling and may worsen with increased activity  or at the end of the day. This is normal and can 
take several months to completely resolve. I would recommend that you see your plastic surgeon again for 
follow-up appointment. Best of luck to you!

Larry Pollack, MD · Answer

Hello there,Of course it is always best to have your surgeon do a post-op exam.  As a general rule, however, we do tell patients to expect residual swelling for 6-9 months following surgery.  Some days it may feel flatter than others and can be affected by activity level, sitting, salt intake, diet, and hormonal fluctuations.  Your doctor should be able to reassure you that it is most likely normal.

Pedro M. Soler, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is not possible to give an accurate opinion without the aid of an in-person examination. Having said that, within the first three months after surgery there is a period of inflammation and scarring that must occur in order for you to heal. It is during this time that you will appear swollen, lumpy/bumpy, etc. So it is not unusual at this stage to experience discomfort and swelling especially as you increase your activity level and especially towards the end of the day. Over ensuing months these processes will subside and the inflammatory process gives way to scar softening and remodeling. It is during this time, as the soft tissues begin to accommodate, that you will start to see your results appear.Be patient and continue in close follow up with your surgeon, this will allow you and your surgeon to discuss your concerns and help allay any concerns you are experiencing. I hope this helps. Best wishes.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, jme61704.  It is difficult to assess without in-person examination.  However, it is normal to have some degree of fluctuation and more swelling at the end of day.  The final result of tummy tuck may take up to 6 months.  Please check with your plastic surgeon so that he/she can evaluate you and give you reassurance.  Good luck.

Should my upper stomach still be swollen at 10 weeks post tummy tuck at the end of the day?

Answers (9)

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