I am 12 weeks post op from Tummy Tuck, is this normal?

Question

I have cramping and tightness in my abdomen and a lump at the center of my incision. Is this normal?

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.To reduce the swelling I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.If  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. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Adam Tattelbaum, MD · Answer

Cramping and tightness and even lumpy bumpiness of the incision can be quite normal at 12 weeks, but only a checkup with your surgeon will be able ensure nothing else is going on. Please check in with your PS.Best wishes.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

It may take several months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to settle.

These can be improved with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma. Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow with products such as Embrace.  On occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.Since you have begun the healing process significantly it would be a good idea to contact your surgeon with concerns and questions and visit for a follow-up exam to make sure the area is healing well.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

#RealSelfCORESurgeon

Bhupesh Vasisht, MD · Answer

Based on your description alone, this may represent a suture dehiscence used to repair  your muscle.  Cannot be sure of course on this forum, I would recommend having your surgeon take a look at this.  Good luck. Hope this helps.

I am 12 weeks post op from Tummy Tuck, is this normal?

Answers (8)