Swelling after tummy tuck: is it normal to look more swollen above incision area 3 weeks after TT?

Certainly there could be several causes of swelling above your incision.  One is just edema, as the area above the incision, below the belly button will gather fluid by the nature of its location and gravity.  I would advise compression in the garment and patience as it could persist for months.  Massage of the area to push out extra fluid towards the side is a possibility if your surgeon approves. Another explanation is a fluid collection.  Gravity would tend to cause accumulated fluid to gather in the area possibly.  Your surgeon would need to evaluate this and possibly drain the fluid collection.  Again, compression is important.  Overall its a common area to have persistent swelling for longer periods of time.  And three weeks is still very early in the healing process.  Continue to wear compression at all times, limit activity, and discuss your concerns with your surgeon.  Best wishes!

Following surgery, almost everybody will have some degree of swelling.  Depending on the procedure the swelling will last from a couple of weeks to several months.  Most physicians advise patients to wear a compression garments and limit for several weeks after surgery of the arms, abdomen, back, and legs to help control swelling.   This is also why your surgeon will ask  you to avoid vigorous exercise  immediately after surgery.Normal swelling will typically feel "boggy" or firm and may be slightly tender to the touch.   A fluid collection feels very different.   Tissues are typically very soft and you may feel a "sloshing"  when you touch the area.   If you have any questions, we encouraged you to see your surgeon who is in the best position to  identify a fluid collection (seroma).

Dear Mommymakeover_me,a photo would help a lot. Generally speaking, swelling after tummy tuck can last up to 4-6 months. However, if there is a significant swelling located in one area then it might be a seroma (fluid collection) which should to be evacuated. I would recommend you to consult your plastic surgeon.Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery 
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery