Are applying ice packs to the abdomen beneficial in reducing swelling after Tummy Tuck?

Swelling normally takes a few weeks to subside. On average, most of the swelling goes away after about 3 months, and depending on the extent of surgery, this may even take up to 6 months. A full tummy tuck will involve a lengthier recovery period than a mini. During these weeks and months, you'll notice the swelling gradually lessening.In the meantime, follow your surgeon's post-surgery care instructions and wear your compression garment as recommended. Your garment will help control swelling by encouraging your body to absorb and eliminate fluids that are causing the swelling. I don't recommend using ice packs since the area may be numb and you may get frostbite because of the lack of sensation.Here are some other tips to deal with swelling:stay well hydrated and go to the washroom regularlyavoid salty foods and eat healthilyget plenty of rest, but also try to move around a bit at a leisurely pace to keep your circulation going when you're not lying downOnce you have adequately recovered, you can consider lymphatic massage, but only with your surgeon's advice

Thanks for your question. As you can see from the other
answers, applying ice packs to reduce swelling isn't recommended and likely
won't do much to reduce swelling anyways. It has the potential to cause
"frostbite" injury to the skin because some areas are still numb right
after surgery. I'd advise you to contact your plastic surgeon for advice when
you have specific questions about your recovery. Good luck!

Swelling is a normal part of healing. Ice packs applied immediately after surgery might be a some benefit but after a few hours contribute nothing to resolution of swelling.