4 weeks post-op tummy tuck swelling, should I be concerned? (Photos)

Question

I had a full tummy tuck 4 weeks ago and liposuction on my flanks. My incision was done very low into my pubic area. I seem to have really bad swelling and after research I haven't seen anything like it in anyone else's pictures that's had this surgery done. Iv had my follow ups and no causes for concern from my dr. Iv attactched some pics if anyone can shed some light on what they think it is then it would be great. My greatest concern is the pooch at the bottom. Thanks

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Based on your pictures it looks like you do have lots of swelling, I recommend you continue to follow up with your PS.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and for sharing your post-op experience. Based on what you’ve described and your photos, it appears that the swelling you're experiencing is normal for being 4 weeks post-op. At this stage, you are still in the early phases of healing, and it’s quite common to have significant swelling, especially in the lower abdomen and pubic area.

Swelling after a tummy tuck, particularly when combined with liposuction, can persist for several weeks or even months. The “pooch” at the bottom you’re concerned about is likely caused by fluid retention and inflammation, which is part of the body’s natural healing process. Even though the swelling may seem excessive compared to other post-op photos, every patient heals differently, and the location of your incision being lower into the pubic area can also contribute to more noticeable swelling in that region.

Since your doctor has not expressed any concerns during follow-ups, this likely indicates that there is no need to worry at this point. However, it’s important to keep monitoring the swelling, and if it worsens or becomes painful, don’t hesitate to reach out to your surgeon again.

I hope this provides some reassurance and helps you through your recovery process.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

N. Bill Aydin, MD · Answer

Hi, Thank you for your post. Congratulations on your surgery. It is hard to tell you what is going on without seeing what you looked like prior to surgery. It does appear to be a little more swelling than normal. I would recommend follow up with your plastic surgeon to make sure that everything is healing properly and that you do not have any fluid collecting in that area.

Scott Loessin, MD · Answer

Compressions are most important especially after the drains are removed to prevent pockets of fluid from forming.  Follow up with your Plastic Surgeon with any concerns.

Israel Manon, MD · Answer

HelloIs good to remember that you're still in the healing process and that each patient has an individualrecovery process. It is also important that your doctor knows everything is happening to you, I recommend you to visit your plastic surgeon so that he/she can evaluate you again and know what any other issue you may have and treat it. Best wishes.Dr. Israel Mañon
Certified Plastic Surgeon

4 weeks post-op tummy tuck swelling, should I be concerned? (Photos)

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4 weeks post-op tummy tuck swelling, should I be concerned? (Photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Post Op

Answer: Post Op

Answer: 4 weeks post-op tummy tuck swelling, should I be concerned?

Answer: 4 weeks post-op tummy tuck swelling, should I be concerned?

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Everything you need to know about Male Tummy Tuck

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