I have a hard, tender bulge around belly button after tummy tuck. What should I do? (Photo)

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

I strongly suggest an exam by your PS.  Be certain as you heal you refrain from heavy lifting and use a stool softener/ avoid straining.

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point (2.5 weeks post-op) the swelling is normal.To reduce it, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.If the after six months post-op, I recommend you send us your photos again, to give you more information about how we can solve this problem.Kind regards,Dr. Emma Mallol Cotes.-

Hello,It is common to feel hardness and localised inflammation around the belly button after Tummy Tuck with umbilical hernia repair. You are still very early in recovery and it will take months for the swelling to resolve and hardness of scars to soften. If you are noting any concerning changes or increased pain, I recommend that you contact your Plastic Surgeon for advise.Take care

Its very common to experience localised pain, swelling and hardness around the belly button after tummy tuck and hernia repair surgery.  You are in the very early stages of your post operative recovery and these issues should all resolve over time.  Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon.

Any post operative concerns should be brought to the attention of your board certified plastic surgeon. Best of luck!