Are lumps common 12 weeks post tummy tuck?

Question

I had a Tummy Tuck 12 weeks ago. I feel a lump about 1/3 of an inch slightly above the belly button and another smaller one below the breastline. When I sit for about 5 minutes or more and I go to stand it is uncomfortable. It takes a few seconds before I feel better. Is this common? What can I do about it?

Steven H. Williams, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question -
These lumps could be several things -
They could be hematomas or seromas (fluid collections below the skin).
The could be fat necrosis (small hard lumps of fat that hasn't survived).
It could represent sutures or part of the muscle plication.
It could even (much less likely given the presentation and location) represent a hernia.
The only way to be sure is to see your plastic surgeon and have a conversation and examination with him or her.
Also important parts of the story would include when these issues first came up, are they getting better, etc.
It may be something that will resolve on its own over time.
I hope this helps.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello youngheart. Thank you for your question regarding the presence of lumps and discomfort you're experiencing 12 weeks after your tummy tuck.

It's not uncommon to notice some irregularities such as lumps after a tummy tuck, especially within the first few months as your body continues to heal and adjust. Here are some insights and suggestions regarding your concerns:

Causes of Lumps:

Swelling and Fluid Accumulation: Even at 12 weeks post-op, localized areas of swelling or fluid accumulation, such as seromas, can present as lumps.
Scar Tissue Formation: Scar tissue can form as part of the normal healing process and might feel like lumps near the incision area or where tissues were repositioned.
Fat Necrosis: This occurs when fatty tissue damaged during the surgery hardens and forms lumps.
Discomfort When Standing:

This could be related to the lumps you are feeling, where pressure or tension from internal healing might be causing discomfort, especially in positions where the abdominal tissues are stretched or compressed.

Management and Treatment:

Observation: In many cases, minor lumps and swelling resolve on their own as the healing progresses. It's important to monitor the size and feel of the lumps, noting any changes.
Massage: Gentle massage can sometimes help, particularly if the lumps are due to soft scar tissue. This can help increase blood flow and facilitate the healing process.
Warm Compresses: Applying warm compresses can help reduce discomfort and might assist in resolving minor fluid collections.
Wearing Compression Garments: If you are not already, continue wearing compression garments as recommended by your surgeon, as these can help reduce swelling and support the healing tissues.
Check with Your Surgeon: It’s important to consult with your plastic surgeon about these lumps and discomfort. They can evaluate whether what you're experiencing is a normal part of the healing process or if it requires further intervention.
Ultrasound: Your surgeon might recommend an ultrasound to better characterize these lumps and decide on the best treatment approach, such as draining a seroma if present.
When to Seek Immediate Help:

If you notice an increase in size, pain, redness, or warmth around the lumps, or if you develop a fever, these could be signs of an infection or other complications that require prompt medical attention.
It’s good to stay vigilant and proactive about changes in your post-operative recovery. Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are crucial for ensuring a smooth recovery and addressing any issues early. I hope this helps, and I wish you a swift and smooth recovery.

Sincerely,

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

As stated in the other answers, there are many possible causes for these lumps.
In any case you should see your surgeon for the explanation but it does not sound a problem that should cause you any immediate concern.
Given that you are only about 12 weeks after surgery, your muscles and scar tissue are still acitve and may explain the tighness you describe after sitting for 5 minutes. I have found that performing core strengthening exercises as advocated by Pilates and Yoga instructors is beneficial in this regard.
However, I would advise that you seek your surgeon' s permission before undertaking an exercise regimen.

Armando Soto, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi- It is difficult to say what may be causing your findings and symptoms- the best thing to do is to call your surgeon's office for an evaluation. Only your surgeon will understand the details of your surgery and what might be causing this in you- so give them a call.

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

Tummy tucks are a very popular and effective way to contour the abdomen tighten your waist. Patients who received a tummy tuck should anticipate a significant recovery process. In our practice, we provide all our patience with two separate compression garments to help them manage their postop swelling. This swelling can last for as long as 6 to 8 months after the surgery. In your case, you may be feeling a small pocket of swelling but regardless it is important to return to your plastic surgeon and let them know of your concerns. They will help determine whether this is tissue swelling, a small collection of fluid or blood that may need to be evacuated, or your body's reaction to some suture material was used during surgery.

	To learn more about tummy tucks, see photos, and help you decide which one is best for you, please visit us at the link below:

Bahram Ghaderi, MD · Answer

The areas you describe could be scarring or collections of blood called hematomas that may be causing discomfort as your body tries to resolve them on its own.
I would check with your surgeon for an examination to reassure you. Being 12wks out from surgery should be comforting that they are not urgent issues but a follow-up exam by your surgeon is warranted.

John P. Di Saia, MD · Answer

Hello,
These may be suture "reactions" and if so they usually get better over time. Fortunately not all sutures are associated with this kind of response. Your surgeon should follow you while these things are in evolution to guide you. Sometimes massage helps.
Best Regards.

Scott Greenberg, MD · Answer

Lumps after an abdominoplasty are not necessarily indicative of something wrong. Many things can cause this but your surgeon knows what sutures were used, where they were used, if liposuction was done, etc. so it is best to see your surgeon if you have these concerns after your procedure.

Kenneth R. Francis, MD, FACS · Answer

Young,
These lumps are most likely the knots of the sutures used to tighten your abdominal muscles, assuming that you are very thin.  If you are not very thin, then they may be small nodules of scar tissue that form in areas of fat that are no longer alive.  See your surgeon for a more definitive answer.  Good luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

I may have answered this question already,. This can be palpable sutures that are felt through a thin flap. It can also be some fat necrosis, of fatty tissue that is palpable through the skin. But, either way you should probably see your doctor so that he/she can carefully examine you.

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