How long does swelling last after a tummy tuck and liposuction? What can one do to prevent or minimize the amount of swelling?

Thanks for your question. Swelling is common after abdominoplasty and suction lipectomy and can last for weeks to months. I generally suggest wearing a compression garment and limiting activity after these procedures, however, there will always be some degree of swelling; that being said, specific recommendations will vary from physician to physician. You should discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon. Best of luck!

You are correct in that the body's natural response to a trauma such as surgery is inflammation and swelling. During a tummy tuck, in particular, the channels that function to drain fluid get disrupted and it can take months for everything to "open up" again. Tummy tucks are one surgery that tends to produce prolonged swelling in my experience. 
Fortunately, most of the swelling will relieve in the first 1-2 months, though it may take 6 months or longer for it to completely resolve (some surgeons say even a year or longer). There are steps patients can take to help with improving swelling: 
1. Wearing compression garments and abdominal binders as directed by the surgeon 
2. Manual massage to help encourage the fluid to drain 
3. Low salt diet 
4. Ultrasound directed lymphatic drainage (done at some surgeons' offices) 
You can discuss the process with a qualified plastic surgeon who will give you her or his protocol on post-op swelling and edema control. 
Best wishes, 
Rohit Jaiswal, MD 
Plastic Surgeon; Las Vegas, NV