Swelling After Mini Tummy Tuck and Liposuction

The amount of swelling and the time necessary for it
to fully subside varies from patient to patient and the magnitude of the procedure
performed.Normally, in the course of a
mini abdominoplasty the entire abdominal wall is treated with liposuction
first.Following that, an incision is
made in the lower abdomen, lifting the skin and fat layer off of the underlying
muscle layer.This elevation is
continued up to the bellybutton.At this
point, the excess skin and fat are pulled downward and the excess is
removed.Commonly, a suction drain is
placed in this space and the skin is then closed.One would expect a longer period of swelling
if more fat was removed during the course of the liposuction.Additionally, each patient has their own
healing characteristics.In general
however, one should expect approximately 80% of the swelling to subside within
the first two to four weeks.The last
20% may take as long as four to six months.Watch my tummy tuck video for a simple and illustrated explanation of tummy tuck and body contouring procedures.

Hello
The inflammation process can last from 6 months to 1 year, each patient has an individual recovery process. I recommend to be patient, wear your compression garment and follow all other instructions given by your surgeon. If you're still worried don't hesitate to consult your doctor. Good luck.

Regards

Dr. Israel Mañon

Certified Plastic Surgeon

Thank you for your question. Swelling after a tummy tuck procedure
typically decreases with every week that passes, with the majority of
the swelling gone by six weeks. Lymphatic massage during the first couple weeks can help tremendously to accelerate the swelling reduction process. From that point, I often tell patients
that they can go about freely to exercise or engage in strenuous
activity and lifting. Increased activity, however, may prolong how long
the small remaining swelling takes to subside. The swelling may also
be more intermittent at this stage and related to the degree of activity
in any given day. This may last between the three - six month mark. I
would visit with your plastic surgeon at the six month mark to revisit
your results and take post-op photographs.