Massages after tummy tuck? Is it optional?

Question

I hear people talk about the need for lymphatic massages after abdominoplasty..… is it for everyone ? Even if you just have loose skin and need muscle repair ?

Jacob Carlson, MD · Answer

For patients who undergo only a tummy tuck, lymphatic massages are helpful to reduce the amount of swelling that occurs after surgery, expedites the rate at which swelling resolves, and reduces the chances that a patient will develop a fluid collection (seroma) after surgery. Anecdotally, I think that it is even more beneficial if you combine liposuction with the tummy tuck, because it helps eliminate the tumescent solution that is infiltrated during the surgery.
In a tummy tuck alone, your surgeon will still create a lot of space between the fatty tissue and the muscles that doesn't currently exist. This 'potential space' can build up with fluid after surgery, so doing things to reduce the size of that space and to help eliminate fluid from there will speed up the swelling and recovery process. The swelling will eventually resolve whether you do lymphatic massages or not, but it's just going to take longer.
I tell patients who are undergoing a tummy tuck alone that lymphatic massages are optional after surgery, but strongly recommended.

Maryam Zamani (Saheb-Al-Zamani), MD · Answer

Hi,
Lymphatic massage can help patients recover more quickly by helping post-surgical inflammation and swelling resolve faster. While not necessary, many patients enjoy the decrease in swelling and stiffness that lymphatic massage can provide, and they feel reassured that regular massages can help any unevenness in swelling or from compression garments smooth out better.
Best,
Dr. Maryam Zamani MD FRCSC 
Double-Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Gary M. Horndeski, MD · Answer

When the tummy tuck is performed, the cut is low near the pubic bone. Therefore, the drainage that usually goes downward toward the pubic bone has been interrupted and all the drainage has to go up against gravity. Sometimes massages can be helpful to decrease the swelling of the upper flap until the lymphatics and veins regrow and re-establish a more normal circulation. It is optional. I routinely do not recommend it for patients.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Best Wishes,

Gary Horndeski, M.D.

Massages after tummy tuck? Is it optional?

Answers (3)

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