Swelling after full tummy tuck with no liposuction. Could this be scar tissue?

Question

I had a full tummy tuck with no liposuction approx 8 months ago. My surgeon said there was no fat to remove and the procedure was done to remove excess skin. I am 5’2” and weigh 110 lbs. I wore compression garments 24/7 for about 4 months. I am experiencing significant swelling right above my incision. I am still not comfortable wearing my presurgery clothes. I am trying to be patient because I know it takes time. I would just like honest opinions on the chances of this being scar tissue.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding abdominal swelling 8 months after your tummy tuck. By eight months, most of the swelling should be gone. If you had been conscientious of your garment and massages, I believe most of what you're experiencing is probably scar tissue. To be sure, I would suggest either an ultrasound, CT scan, or even an MRI to evaluate the area in question. Another possibility would be a body scanner to rule out your percent body fat. These objective tests will tell if this area is scar tissue or fat. Since you are only 110 lbs, it seems unlikely that this is fat. Another possibility is that the peritoneal cavity or the chamber underneath your rectus abdominus muscle is sticking out and making you appear fat when you are not. This is called visceral fat but in your case, may just be the distention of the peritoneal cavity. Good luck. I hope this helps to answer your question regarding abdominal swelling after a tummy tuck.

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, and International College of Surgery, and member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear bb6phil,
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

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is unusual to have significant swelling 8 months after surgery.  An exam or photos is needed to suggest what may be causing the area that concerns you.  If it is fat, liposuction to the area should give you improvement.

Jose A. Munoz, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi and welcome to our forum!Healing after abdominoplasty takes at least 12-18 months. Residual swelling is not uncommon 8 months after the procedure as well as sensory alteration. Without an in-person examination, I cannot be more specific. If concerned, revisit your plastic surgeon.Best wishes...

Swelling after full tummy tuck with no liposuction. Could this be scar tissue?

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