Panniculectomy with liposuction. How long does swelling last?

Question

I had a tummy tuck without muscle and small amount of liposuction 5 days ago. I have 3 drains in with amounts down to just about 30 units a day. How long can I expect to have continued swelling ? I have compression garment on 24/7, except for showering.

Richard H. Tholen, MD, FACS · Answer

Frankly, swelling after tummy tuck takes weeks to months to settle, so at 5 days post-op it is not unusual to have drainage AND swelling! Especially with liposuction (even a little), 30cc per day (even per drain per day) is coming down nicely.Add to that the fact that without muscle repair, and internal omental and mesenteric fat will still protrude from your stretched (and unrepaired) abdominal wall, which may look like swelling, but is still residual bulging!It is entirely normal to have some degree of visible surgical swelling (in addition to the above factors) for 6-12 weeks, and for "final" scar softening, maturity, and fading to take up to a year. Be patient, and stay in contact with your surgeon. Best wishes! Dr. Tholen

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, some swelling can last for up to a year! Please be discussing withyuor surgeon about your healing milestones and good luck.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the abdominal wall contouring surgery. Swelling may persist for several months and even up to one year postoperatively. Best wishes for an outcome that you will be pleased with long-term.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

The tightness, swelling, numbness, itching and hardness after a surgery like you had typically persists at least 8 weeks after the surgery then slowly goes away. In my experience, daily massage of the hard areas makes the biggest difference in getting rid of it sooner rather than later. It can easily take 4-6 months to see results. Your scars will also flatten and fade but usually takes 9-12 months. Be sure to keep any scheduled follow up appointments you have with your surgeons for his evaluation and advice. You appear to be healing well so far. Hope this helps. Dean Vistnes.

Panniculectomy with liposuction. How long does swelling last?

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