10 weeks post op tummy tuck. Bloating? (Photo)

Question

Hi. I had a tummy tuck with lipo on the flanks 10 weeks ago. I love my results however I feel like my belly has been getting bigger or bloating up alot when I eat. It hasn't changed in the last few weeks. Right now my lower abdomen puffs out like a little ball and feels the same size as before. I understand that swelling can take months to go down, but it feels like it's been stuck where it's at. When will it go down flat and tight? And what can I do to speed up the process?

Mark E. Freeman, MD · Answer

Hi there, J.
Marie. Unfortunately, swelling and bloating are typical effects of liposuction,
and they can take some time to resolve. Although these symptoms should
gradually diminish as time goes by, they can certainly "plateau"
during the recuperation process. While there is no sure-fire way to encourage
swelling to decrease faster, you can try wearing a compression garment to help
you feel more confident in tight-fitting clothes. You should begin to notice a
more marked improvement within a few weeks, and you should feel free to check
in with your surgeon if you are concerned. Best of luck!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

In my opinion it takes closer to 6 months to see final results.Theres no true way to speed this up.Sometimes by performing liposuction of the flanks, the true lower abdomen can be more noticeable.Its best to be examined to see of theres residual fat on the lower abdomen, but again I would wait a few more months.Best of luck!dr schwartz

Jaime Perez, MD · Answer

What you are observing appears to be normal swelling. It
will go down over time, and keep in mind that your final results can take up to
a year to emerge completely. I would not worry about your appearance at this
point. If a year has gone by and your appearance hasn’t changed to something
you are satisfied with, you may want to consider liposuction to remove any
residual fat. Best regards.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

By 10 weeks most patients although still swollen have recognized sizable improvement after abdominoplasty. If you're taking pain medication that would inhibit G.I. motility this could contribute to the problem. Salt restriction will help reduce total body water but I doubt this will have a big contribution to your particular dilemma. Best to discuss this with your surgeon.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photographs. It looks as if you have gotten some really nice results from your procedure.  Bloating and that lower abdominal swelling is fairly common after surgery, and should start resolving itself over the next several weeks. Some people do not reach their final result for over 6 months.  To ensure that nothing else is going on, be sure to speak with your surgeon or schedule a follow up appointment.  This can give you some additional reassurance.

10 weeks post op tummy tuck. Bloating? (Photo)

Answers (5)