1 year 1/2 after TT and 1 year lipo touch up to abs. Is this swelling normal? (Photo)

Question

Hello, is it normal to swell above my incision line 1 1/2 yrs after tummy tuck? I’ve had this issue since the beginning. I’ve consulted with my surgeon several times regarding this, but he says it’s normal. But i look at other results and they don’t swell like i do. I’m happy with my results with the exception of the lower part of my tummy. When getting ready for an event, i will go without eating so that my lower tummy part doesn’t stick out so much.

Andrew Wolfe, MD · Answer

Swelling in the soft tissues can last for 12-18 months after a TT, so at this point any fullness you have isn't swelling.  The most common reason for concerns like yours is a bit of residual fat that was left on your tummy tuck flap.  Although this area can be conservatively thinned out during surgery, more aggressive treatment can lead to blood supply issues immediately after surgery, so it may still be a bit thick compared to the surrounding tissue.  A bit of liposuction can be a very quick and effective way of treating this.  Talk to your surgeon, as they should have a strong desire to fine-tune your result and make you completely satisfied.

David J. Wages, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  One year is plenty of time for swelling to resolve.  If still there revisit with  your surgeon or seek a second opinion.  Good luck.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question and photo.  One year out should be sufficient time for most if not all of the swelling to be gone.  It may be that your abdominal wall is not as tight below the belly button or that there is scar tissue just above the scar line such as a pseudo bursa.  Do you know if you had a seroma collection after surgery?  Did you have drains?An in person discussion and exam would be beneficial to try and determine which of these may be the cause.Remus Repta, MD

1 year 1/2 after TT and 1 year lipo touch up to abs. Is this swelling normal? (Photo)

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1 year 1/2 after TT and 1 year lipo touch up to abs. Is this swelling normal? (Photo)

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.