6 months post tummy tuck, is this swelling? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck, exactly 6 months ago. A couple of months ago my surgeon said the swelling was normal. But it's now 6 months, and this problem still persists. Is this still swelling or something else? I have not gained weight (if that helps). Pics attatched.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and photographs.  It is possible for this to still be swelling but this would depend on an in-person examination of your tissues.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Energeticmomma,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Neal G. Moores, MD · Answer

Hello, it looks like your wounds are healing very very well. At 6 months there can indeed still be some swelling adjacent to an abdominoplasty incision. Sometimes it can take a while for the body to learn to "re-route" lymphatic fluid that is draining from the legs across the incision. Or some of this fluid can accumulate above the incision. Often abdominoplasties can continue to improve for a year after surgery. Sometime scar massage can help too. I would ask your surgeon how they want you to proceed with this. If, after a year things don't get to where you are happy, likely some small revision could be undertaken. On the whole it looks like you are doing very well.
Note: The above is intended as general education about plastic surgery and healing, it does not represent an individualized care-plan or medical advice without a detailed interview, and physical exam.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is possible that this could be residual swelling.  Final results from a tummy tuck are not seen for a few more months yet.  If after that time you are still not seeing an improvement a touch up may be done to help further contour the area.

Kristen Aliano Messina, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and the photos. It is still possible that you are swollen from surgery. Please speak to your surgeon about further concerns.

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