Had my FDL tummy tuck 6/6/18, is it normal to have this much swelling and bloating this far out? (photos)

Question

Is this normal to have so much swelling? Or is it bloating this far out? Had muscle repair and some Lipo! Sometimes I wish I would have stayed the way I was! After gastric sleeve 2 yrs ago lost 90 lbs decided to get this done. Not so sure this was the right thing! Plz HELP!

Anoush Hadaegh, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. It is not unusual to have a prolong swelling after Tummy Tuck. In general it takes 3 months to get a ride of majority of the swelling. But it is possible you might need more time for the swelling to settle down. Compression garment, lymphatic message and limiting abdominal exercises might help. It is a good idea to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Good Luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear julia0115,I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a tummy tuck surgery. Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides  you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

It's a great question. It's difficult to determine the cause of the bloating without examining you. If you're concerned that the bloating may be caused by fluid under your skin, I would speak with your surgeon. It is normal for swelling to remain for several months, but it's not normal for a collection of fluid to form. When in doubt, return to your plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns. Also, it appears that you have raised scars (hypertrophic scars). I would speak with your surgeon about their recommendations to flatten your scars.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Without seeing your pre op photos or having more information it's difficult to know what is occurring for sure.  It appears you may have visceral fat contributing to your look.  This is the fat that surrounds your organs and is behind the muscle wall.  It cannot be improved with liposuction or a tummy tuck, but losing more weight can improve the results.  I encourage you to speak with your surgeon about your concerns.

Curtis Wong, MD · Answer

Probably but this is where you should be discussing your concerns with your surgeon and knowing what your surgeon's revision policy is.  With your weight loss, you must be a lot better so staying the way you were is really not an option.  Focus on healing and discussing with your surgeon if things can be improved upon.  My patients who lose a lot of weight are told to expect revisions to get the best outcome possible.

Mark A. Schusterman, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not abnormal to have prolonged swelling after a tummy tuck.  You may want to try lymphatic massage to try and reduce the swelling.  Hope this helps.

Had my FDL tummy tuck 6/6/18, is it normal to have this much swelling and bloating this far out? (photos)

Answers (6)

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