Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck? Was completely flat week 4 but not now (Photo)

February 24, 2019

Full abdominoplasty Dec 18. Now 9 weeks post op. By week 4 all initial swelling had calmed down and was flat (see pic). However by week 6 nurse referred me back to surgeon as was concerned my belly was protruding and hard - kept asking if pregnant! He ruled out anything serious, said just lymphatic drainage not draining quickly. Pubic area still like a balloon - is that normal? Now I look pregnant when I remove compression garment. Having weekly massage. Very scared this may be permanent. Help!

4 photos

Answers (7)

From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
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December 11, 2023

Answer: Postoperative swelling after abdominoplasty

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John E. Nees, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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December 11, 2023

Answer: Postoperative swelling after abdominoplasty

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John E. Nees, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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February 18, 2025

Answer: Swelling

Camille Cash, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
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February 18, 2025

Answer: Swelling

Camille Cash, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
August 19, 2019

Answer: Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck?

1 person found this helpful
Kenneth Hughes, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
August 19, 2019

Answer: Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck?

1 person found this helpful
Kenneth Hughes, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon

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February 27, 2019

Answer: Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck?

3 people found this helpful
Tom J. Pousti, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
February 27, 2019

Answer: Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck?

3 people found this helpful
Tom J. Pousti, MDBoard Certified Plastic Surgeon
March 15, 2019

Answer: Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck? Was completely flat week 4 but not now

1 person found this helpful
March 15, 2019

Answer: Is it OK to continue swelling each week after 9 weeks post op tummy tuck? Was completely flat week 4 but not now

1 person found this helpful

Recommended reading

Tummy Tuck

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

  • 95% worth it
  • 25.0k reviews
  • Avg cost: $11,752
Learn More
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