12 days post-op tummy tuck; swelling and stabbing/burning pain in belly button? (Photos)

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point (2 weeks post-po) the swelling have to be minimal.To reduce it, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.Kind regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Thank you for your question.After a #tummytuck surgery, #swelling can persist for several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months, six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area can become very swollen and discolored during the first two weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate.If you have concerns, please contact your #BoardCertified #PlasticSurgeon so you may be examined in person.

Thank you for your question. You should expect to have swelling for three to six months following tummy tuck surgery. Swelling in the pubic area is quite common and will take some time to resolve. Use of a properly fitted compression garment will help decrease the length and severity of the post-operative swelling. As the swelling decreases, the contour of your abdomen, flanks, and hips will dramatically improve. Please follow your plastic surgeons specific advice regarding your level of physical activity. Hope this helps and good luck with your recovery.

Thank you for your question.  Specific stabbing pain around your umbilicus may be related to nerve irritation of the T10 nerve.  This  pain can be alleviated by an injection of Marcaine anesthetic or even better an injection of Exparel  which is a 72 hour acting lipid bound Marcaine anesthetic solution. Additionally, as the normal swelling process starts to decrease over the next 3 to 6 months discomfort will diminish.  Pubic swelling is very common due to gravitational accumulation of fluid.  Swelling can be addressed by using Topifoam  and postop of compression garments. The results continue to improve after six months and with a proper diet and exercise excellent results are seen at 1 to 2 years postoperatively.  Best wishes in your recovery!   Sincerely, James Fernau, M.D., FACS Board Certified ENT Board Certified Plastic Surgery Member ASPS, ASAPS, ISAPS, The Rhinoplasty Society, AAFPRS, OTO/HNS , ASLMS