Swelling and upper abdomen protruding - what could this be? (Photo)

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.To reduce the swelling, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.If the fter six months post-op, I recommend you send us your photos again, to give you more information about how we can solve this problem.Kind regards,Dr. Emma Mallol Cotes.-

Swelling can persist for
several months and will gradually improve and will look better at three months,
six months, and even one year. Frequently the pubic area and the scrotal and
penis area for men can become very swollen and discolored during the first two
weeks due to gravity as this is the lowest area for swelling to accumulate.

It may take several
months for a tummy tuck patient’s scars to soften, for sensation to return, and
for relaxing of the tight sensation in the abdomen. In the case of extensive
surgery, abdominoplasty recovery can be uncomfortable and may take longer. Scars
may stay red, become thick or widen. It can take 12-18 months for the scars to
settle.

These can be improved
with topical treatments such as BioCorneum, Scar Guard, Scar Fade and Mederma.
Redness can be improved with laser treatments and the scars can be kept narrow
with products such as Embrace.  On
occasion, keloids or hypertrophic scars can develop and will need treatment
including Kenalog, 5FU and laser.It is likely that swelling may persist for months, but if you find yourself concerned about healing then it is best to visit your surgeon to have the area examined. You will be able to receive informative advice and details based upon your specific case. Good luck.

Thank you for sharing your question and series of photographs.  It is difficult without an in-person examination to determine what may be taking place.  Most commonly this is residual swelling from surgery which will spontaneously resolve but it would be important to voice your concerns to your surgeon to ensure that other issues are not taking place - discrete fluid collection, muscle laxity, or residual adipose tissue. Once a diagnosis is made, the best treatment plan can be determined.

I appreciate your question.



Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.



Best of luck!



Dr. Schwartz



Board Certified Plastic Surgeon



#RealSelf100Surgeon

The tightness may be related to eating and the plication, it may be swelling, it may be fluid.  Best to review with your surgeon.

Congratulations on a great result post abdominoplasty.  Some of these changes could represent a fascial laxity or could be postoperative swelling.  The best option is to see your Plastic Surgeon and discuss your concerns.  Good luck with your recovery!

Thank you for your inquiry. 

The issue you are having is dependent on the time course following your surgery. This could be related to normal postoperative soft tissue swelling, muscle/abdominal wall plication swelling. However, it could also be related to an abdominal wall buldge. The only way determine the true etiology is for you to contact your board-certified plastic surgeon for an exam. He or she will reassure you and provide the answer you are seeking.