4 weeks post tummy tuck, all of a sudden I look 6 months pregnant, after being flat. What can I do? (Photo)

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point (4 Weeks post op) the swelling is normal.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.If the after six months post-op, I recommend you send us your photos again, to give you more information about how we can solve this problem.Kind regards,Dr. Emma Mallol Cotes.-

At 4 weeks, you are still in the early stages of healing. What you are experiencing is probably due to swelling, but since you sound as if you are in pain and I always think it best to err on the side of caution, I would suggest that you schedule an appointment to see your surgeon so that he or she can assess you in person. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Fluctuation in swelling is usually normal after tummy tuck surgery and you are still in the very early post operative recovery phase.  Swelling can fluctuate daily and is often at its worst in the evening when you have been on your feet all day.  It can take up to six months or so to finally resolve and can be minimised by wearing your post operative garment.  If the swelling appeared suddenly and is associated with pain then you should discuss with your surgeon.

Hi, there.A sudden change on your appearance of abdomen may indicate swelling, seroma formation, or bulging from the intra-abdominal content.  Keep a binder/compression and follow up with your plastic surgeon.Good luck.

Hello. Are you still wearing compression?  With an abdominoplasty, you will have swelling for many months after surgery. Wearing compression can help the discomfort and helps to decrease swelling. Based on your photos and your description, you could have developed a seroma pocket, which is trapped fluid. Contact your plastic surgeon and let them know what you are experiencing. They may need to aspirate the fluid for you. This would decrease the size and pressure in your abdomen. If it isn't a seroma pocket, try to continue wearing compression to your abdomen to support your swelling. Happy healing!