Puffy and Ridge in Pubic Area After Tummy Tuck

In all likelihood, this will resolve.
However, there are conditions which can make this work. I have found that when patients wear garments or binders which fold or kink, especially when sitting, it can make the pubic selling worse due to a tourniquet-like effect.
It is similar to when you wear tight stocklings and your ankles swell.

Hello moneyhunna29,

I understand your concern about the puffiness and ridge in your pubic area following your tummy tuck surgery. It's not uncommon for patients to experience changes in their appearance during the early stages of recovery.

The ridge you're noticing may be due to swelling and tissue healing around the incision site. As your body continues to heal and the swelling subsides, this ridge should gradually improve over time. It's important to remember that the body's healing process can vary from person to person, and what you're experiencing may be a normal part of the recovery process.

Try not to stress yourself out too much by worrying about it. Healing takes time, especially after surgery, and it's normal to have concerns about changes in your body during this period. Be patient with yourself and allow your body the time it needs to heal properly.

If you find that the ridge and puffiness persist or worsen over time, I would recommend contacting your plastic surgeon for further evaluation and advice. Your surgeon is the best person to assess your individual situation and provide guidance on the appropriate course of action.

In the meantime, focus on following your surgeon's post-operative instructions, including any recommended wound care and activity restrictions. Taking good care of yourself and allowing your body to heal at its own pace can help promote a smoother recovery process.

I hope this reassurance helps alleviate some of your concerns. Remember to reach out to your surgeon if you have any questions or if you notice any concerning changes during your recovery.

Take care and wishing you a speedy recovery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Thanks for the question.
Post-op swelling after a tummy tuck is still largely present at only three weeks post-op. Swelling occurs as part of your body's natural response to trauma. (Yes, surgery is controlled trauma!) Your body has an impaired ability to resolve this swelling because of the divided lymphatics.
Your surgeon may have used drains for the first week or two to collect fluid accumulating under the abdominoplasty flaps.
Most of this swelling should go away at 6 - 8 weeks.
If the swelling persists it may represent an organized seroma (fluid collection) that will need to be drained, a disruption in the rectus muscle plication or excess fat that might need liposuction.
Time is your friend right now. Be sure to discuss the concerns with your plastic surgeon and have regular follow-up.
I hope this helps.