Could swollen bilateral inguinal lymph nodes be related to the tummy tuck in April 2023?

Question

My tummy tuck was in April 2023. October I was doing lymphatic massage and noticed hard enlarged lymph nodes in my groin area. U/S was done and confirmed there are a total of "six in right inguinal region, four in left inguinal region". It says "benign appearing". My main concern is that they have not gone away so something is causing it. I left two messages with my surgeon over several weeks but never got a call back. Could it be related to the tummy tuck?

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

There are many potential causes for swollen lymph nodes including your tummy tuck.  It would be unusual for them to not become swollen until several months after surgery, so it may be from another cause.  Regardless it is best to follow up with your primary care physician if you are not able to reach your surgeon.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear DEERTHOMAS12,
I understand your concern. Generally speaking, lymph nodes react to nearby infections or other processes and it is most likely not caused by previous surgeries. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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

Peter D. Geldner, MD · Answer

I am sorry to hear of your situation. Though some enlargement of inguinal lymph nodes is not unexpected following abdominoplasty, I am surprised that this is persisting. My strong suggestion is that you see your surgeon to evaluate what's happening. Certainly, they need to rule out other reasons for enlarged lymph nodes and determine what else could be going on. Not knowing the details of your medical or surgical history, I will not speculate about the potential causes. I would however suggest that you schedule a consultation with you surgeon.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

It might be related to the tuck, but you might need a biopsy or CT scan just to be certain that nothing is being overlooked.  Go talk to your medical doctor.

Nelson Garcia Mendez, MD · Answer

Hello, there should be no nodes in the groin as a result of the surgery, the nodes may be altered by infectious processes or neoclassicisms more frequently, perhaps also by some obstruction of lymphatic drainage, you should perform a physical evaluation and studies to see what the cause.

Could swollen bilateral inguinal lymph nodes be related to the tummy tuck in April 2023?

Answers (9)

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Ideally, a physical evaluation should be performed.

Answer: Ideally, a physical evaluation should be performed.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

Could swollen bilateral inguinal lymph nodes be related to the tummy tuck in April 2023?

Answers (9)

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Surgery

Answer: Ideally, a physical evaluation should be performed.

Answer: Ideally, a physical evaluation should be performed.

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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.