Feeling sore and swollen three weeks post Tummy tuck. Any suggestions?

Question

I had a tummy tuck without muscle repair three weeks ago. I have had a busy few days at work and this past weekend did more errands and activity than I should. I'm wondering if this swelling and soreness (sore like after a difficult workout) is normal and am I just overdoing it? I have an appointment with my PS coming up but just wanted some feedback. Thanks!

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

Without photos or an exam it is impossible to give you an opinion. three Weeks is too to tell. It is extremely difficult to tell what your final result will be so soon after surgery and especially without an exam. Edema, Seroma, and other causes may be explanations for example.It is perfectly normal to have numbness or swelling after a tummy tuck which is expected to slowly have sensation return to normal after many months and even years following your surgery. Although uncommon, permanent numbness and tingling can occur after tummy tuck surgery, especially in the lower mid line area between the scar and belly button. In most cases there is some sensation present, just not the normal pre-surgical amount. Please speak with your plastic surgeon about your concerns. #tummytucknumbness #tummytuckpost-op

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.I know it is hard to take it easy after surgery but it is best to reduce your activity as much as you can.  Your swelling and soreness is likely because you have done too much.  After surgery, too much activity causes swelling and that causing soreness.  I would recommend you follow up with your surgeon so he/she can examine you at this time.

The best way to assess and give
true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified
plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Robert N. Severinac, MD · Answer

Time is your answer.  You are only three weeks following Tummy Tuck and as you say, you are overdoing it.  The movement in the torso that comes with increased activity makes the skin and fat flap slide over the muscle layer.  This reinjures that tissue plane thats trying to heal together causing inflammation, discomfort, and swelling.  Think of the abdomen as funnel where the bottom is th pubic area.  Any drainage that happens between the abdominal tissue planes will end up under the forces of gravity in the lower abdomen and pubic area.   That is why this area is th last area to completely heal.So take it easy, wear the compressive support, and let time heal.All my best.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Yes, it definitely sounds as if your increased soreness is due to overdoing it. Which is easy to do. Take it easy for the next few days and the pain should subside. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question. Your swelling and soreness sound completely normal given your increased level of physical activity 3 weeks following surgery. Wearing a compression garment should help with your symptoms.  I instruct my patients to wear a compression
garment for six weeks following the procedure. Exercise can resume at six weeks but can take a month or
so to get back to your pre-op routine.  
Recovery will vary from person to person depending on their general health. I recommend an evaluation by your plastic surgeon for evaluation.

Feeling sore and swollen three weeks post Tummy tuck. Any suggestions?

Answers (8)

Answer: Overdone it

Answer: Overdone it

Answer: Tummy Tuck Discomfort

Answer: Tummy Tuck Discomfort

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Feeling sore and swollen three weeks post Tummy tuck. Any suggestions?

Answers (8)

Answer: Overdone it

Answer: Overdone it

Answer: Tummy Tuck Discomfort

Answer: Tummy Tuck Discomfort

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.