What could be causing inflated abdomen after tummy tuck and muscle repair? (Photos)

I have seen this on occasion after abdominoplasty and many times it is because the patient has put on weight after the procedure. You didn’t mention what your weight was before the surgery vs currently. After abdominoplasty, the “reservoir “ for fat that was in the lower abdomen has been removed. Therefore, if you put on a small amount of weight, more of that fat will be stored internally, beneath the muscle compared to before the surgery. For example, if your pre surgical weight was 130 lbs and the amount of fat removed weighed 3 lbs, your new post op weight should be 127. If you currently weigh 135, you would be functionally 8 lbs heavier, and the proportion of fat stores beneath your abdominal muscles will be higher, resulting in feeling “inflated.” Without knowing your weight and if it changes, this is just a thought. If your weight is lower than pre-op, then perhaps a GI work up is in order to further evaluate. Best regards.

Dr Deboni

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs. Two things need to be considered - return of muscle fascial laxity and an increase in visceral fat. The former is seen most commonly in patients suffering with intestinal swelling/bloating and chronic constipation, while the latter is most commonly the result of weight gain. Talk to your surgeon for the best advice as they know the full details of your procedure.

Dear AfroPuff,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went 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, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

An inflated abdomen following a tummy tuck and muscle repair could be due to several factors, such as:1. Swelling: It’s common to experience swelling after surgery, and this can make the abdomen appear larger than it actually is. Swelling can persist for several weeks to months.2. Fluid accumulation: Seromas or hematomas (accumulation of fluid or blood) can develop post-surgery and lead to abdominal swelling. Your surgeon may need to drain these if they occur.3. Scar tissue: The formation of scar tissue can contribute to changes in the appearance of the abdomen. This can affect the contour and texture of the area.4. Infection: In rare cases, an infection can cause swelling and discomfort. If you suspect an infection, contact your surgeon immediately.5. Tightness from muscle repair: The repaired abdominal muscles may feel tight, causing temporary discomfort and contributing to the appearance of a fuller abdomen.It’s crucial to consult with your plastic surgeon to determine the cause and discuss any concerns about post-operative swelling and discomfort. They can provide guidance and monitor your recovery to ensure it’s proceeding as expected.

Hi! A thorough examination would be required to determine what went wrong. Also you have not mentioned your weight before surgery vs current, swelling/bloating is most commonly the result of weight gain. After tummy tuck, if you put on a small amount of weight, more fat will be stored internally, beneath the muscle compared to before surgery when it was stored in the lower abdomen. You need to talk to your plastic surgeon or take a second opinion on this.

It is difficult to say what is occurring without knowing more. This could be attributed to increase in visceral fat (the fat around the organs). It could be bloating from changes in diet. It is right that you reached out to your surgeon who should be able to provide more information after an examination.