7 months post op tummy tuck, have a hard bulge above my incision. Is this normal? Options? (photos)

You need to be seen by your surgeon and examined, and possibly have an ultrasound to see if fluid remains and if a seroma thick walled cavity has formed.

Thank you for your question about recovery from tummy tuck.

For specific questions like this and about your recovery in general, it is best to speak directly with your doctor or doctor’s representative – such as his or her nurse, or the physician on call for the practice.

You will likely get many differing opinions from members of the RealSelf Community, but they have not personally seen or examined you. Nobody should know you or your unique set of circumstances better than your doctor.

If you feel you are not being listened to or you are doubting your doctor’s recommendations, then it is certainly within your rights to seek a second opinion and get the advice from another board certified physician. This should be done through an in-person consultation with a thorough evaluation, including a review of your history, review of all prior treatment and with a physical examination.

Obviously, if you think that you are having a medical emergency or other serious problem, you should call 911 and/or go to your nearest emergency room.

Best Wishes.

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation. It would be unusual for swelling of this magnitude to persist 7 months post op. An ultrasound may be helpful to determine if there is fluid build up present. Especially with your history of complications, I encourage you to meet with your surgeon for an exam.