6 weeks post op and stomach feels tight and big! Especially at the top! Could I have torn sutures and not realized it? (photo)

Question

6 weeks post op and stomach feels tight and big! Especially at the top! Could I have torn sutures and not realized it? I’ve done mild activities and have slowly gotten back to normal lifting at 6 weeks. Mainly housework and childcare. Could this be swelling or weight gain? I don’t see any evidence of seroma (no waterbed look).

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear suzanne97,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

are the weak link in tummy tucks and if its mild as it appears in your case, and your plication is intact, office liposuction can usually improve the outcome to most patient's satisfaction, especially if you did not have any liposuction to your tummy at your procedure (ie: Lipoabdominoplasty).  You should see your surgeon and express your concerns and let your surgeon tell you what it could be and what can be done to improve your outcome.  I always tell all of my tummy tuck patients that revisions should be expected if perfect outcomes are wanted.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!

Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation is still normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

6 weeks post op and stomach feels tight and big! Especially at the top! Could I have torn sutures and not realized it? (photo)

Answers (3)

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.

6 weeks post op and stomach feels tight and big! Especially at the top! Could I have torn sutures and not realized it? (photo)

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

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.