Why do I still see a belly 3 months after TT? I'm not flat as I see others. My doctor keeps saying is just swollen. (photo)

Question

I am 5'2" and weight 112lbs. I had a TT w lipo 3 months ago. I still have a belly round and if I bend down, you can see a pouch. Always been thin just extra skin from pregnancies. Is this swollen? Anything I can do to get flat results?

Ankur Mehta, MD · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question! From the picture you have posted it is slightly difficult to really get an idea of what your abdomen is looking like right now. A photo further away, a side profile and a before photo would all really help in assessing the situation. However, as my colleagues have stated, it can take about 6 months for most of the swelling to resolve. Now, this is considering that this was a tummy tuck that involved tightening of the abdominal muscles. If your abdominal muscles were not tightened or if the repair came loose than this can lead to some fullness to the abdomen. I have found, with my patients, most of the swelling resolves after 3 months and then swelling continues to decrease for the next 3-6 months but the reduction is minimal. I would say be patient, wait the 6 months and if still swollen then discuss with your plastic surgeon your concerns. Ankur Mehta MD

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo. You should expect to have swelling for three to six months following tummy tuck surgery. Use of a properly fitted compression garment will help decrease the length and severity of the post-operative swelling. As the swelling decreases, the contour of your abdomen, flanks, and hips will dramatically improve. Please follow your plastic surgeons specific advice regarding your level of physical activity. Hope this helps and good luck with your recovery.

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photo. The results look good and the swelling can persist for upto 6 months occasionally longer you had both lipo and TT. It is best to follow up with your board certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Healing after a tummy tuck can take up to 6 months.  There is a process of swelling and bruising that peaks at 3 days after surgery and then undergoes the first stage of major resolution in the first 2 weeks after surgery.  The later phase of healing takes place over the 2-3 months after surgery where everything really settles and softens.  It is after this time that we are getting close to the final result, though this varies patient to patient. Try to be patient, and  make sure to follow your specific surgeon's instructions.

Demetrius Evriviades, MS, FRCS(Plast) · Answer

Hi, and thank you for your query. Post-operative swelling following a tummy tuck will last for around six months, so the true outcome cannot yet be ascertained. Please continue to follow all guidance from your surgeon as to post-operative care, and if, after a few more months, you are still unhappy with your result, you should contact your original surgeon and explain your concerns. They will then be able to advise you of your options going forward. I wish you all the best.

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

A side view would be more instructive to analyze your issue.  You could have excessive visceral fat (under the muscle) that can't be dealt with during the surgery.  There is also likely to me at least some swelling left from the surgery.  See your surgeon if you're still dissatisfied after 6 months when any swelling should be minimal.

David Rosenstein, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question. Swelling is the biggest complaints from liposuction and/or tummy tuck patients post operatively. I tell my patients that swelling will persist for about 6-9 months. If you are still concerned with your outcome then discuss revision options with your board certified cosmetic surgeon. I do recommend trying to keep a very low sodium diet, drink plenty of water, and keep a low fat high protein diet to keep your weight off. Best of luck with your surgical healing.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Swelling after TT and lipo can last up to 6-9 months.  Please follow instructions from your PS and re evaluate in 3 months.

Talmage J. Raine, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

When a tummy tuck heals the tissue above the suture line remains swollen for a long time. You should wait a few more months before getting too upset. I think your picture of your result looks great.All the best,Talmage Raine MD

Why do I still see a belly 3 months after TT? I'm not flat as I see others. My doctor keeps saying is just swollen. (photo)

Answers (9)

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