Tummy tuck (lipo and muscle repair) 19 days post op - am I healing okay? Swelling or fat? (Photos)

Question

You’ll see in the photos, I have some sections of my incision that appear unusual to me. Sitches and redness. I traveled to see my surgeon so I am unable to visit with him in person. I just wanted professional opinion about these small things. Also, do I seem overly swollen for 19 days out? I was a big girl, how can I tell if I’m dealing with swelling or fat? Thank you!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear wedding07,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a tummy tuck surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

I do not understand why people travel a distance to have this procedure done.  So if you cannot get answers from your surgeon after sending photos to him/her, you will need to get a local surgeon who is willing to assume your post-op care, or to at least manage your concerns such as fat or fluid and concerns about your incisions.  Based on photos alone, you look fine but an exam is really needed to evaluate for fluid collections versus fat.  Uneven incisions is normal and they should smooth with time.  Your surgeon, even if not near, is still responsible for managing your recovery so you should lean on your surgeon for the answers you need.

Tummy tuck (lipo and muscle repair) 19 days post op - am I healing okay? Swelling or fat? (Photos)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Tummy tuck (lipo and muscle repair) 19 days post op - am I healing okay? Swelling or fat? (Photos)

Answers (2)

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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.