8 weeks post TT with lipo, bloating and discomfort. Advice? (photos)

Question

I’m 8 weeks post-op from TT with Lipo. I’m watching salt intake and diet, drinking my water and wearing CG every night and most of the time I’m awake. In the evenings I am still visually bloated/swollen and very sore, almost like a burning feeling across lower abdomen. Measurements are still bigger then pre-surgery. Very minimal changes from 4 weeks to 8 weeks. Am I just healing slower then most? Is there still hope that I will lose more in my measurements?

Robert Cohen, MD · Answer

It is very common to see prolonged swelling after abdominoplasty as many of the lymphatic vessels and blood vessels are cut, which can temporarily trap swelling in the flap until new channels develop. Additionally, patients recover at very different rates.  2 months post op is a fairly short time with regards to this surgery, so I wouldn't worry.  If approved by your surgeon, you might want to wear compression garments like Spanx or Flexees to help with swelling.  You should see significant shrinkage over the next 2-3 months, but many patients will continue to improve up to a year postop.  If you have concerns overall, you should set up a visit to have an in-person evaluation with your surgeon. Good luck!

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

Based on the photo, you may still be experiencing a degree of swelling. You are still early in the healing process and you will continue to improve through the course of your recovery. If you feel like there is water retention in your abdominal area, or a wavy feeling when you turn to the side while lying down, have your surgeon check for seroma or fluid collection.

Rachel Ford, MD · Answer

Hello!
Thanks for your question. Despite being 2 months postop, this is still relatively early in your healing from a Tummy Tuck. It takes several months to see your final results, so I would not worry too much about the final outcome yet. Continue to stay hydrated, wear your garment, eat a healthy diet and follow the postoperative instructions from your Plastic Surgeon.
Best of luck to you!

Saul Lahijani, MD · Answer

Thanks for you question.Everyone one has a different post operative course.  You seem to be coming along well but always remember this is a big surgery and your final results will take up to 8-12 months.  You most likely still have inflammation in addition to disruption of the lympathic vessels, which will take time to redevelop.  Do not be discouraged this is temporary!! You will continue to improve. It is always best to consult your plastic surgeon with any concerns.  In my experience the rate of recovery has to do with the age, physical health of the patient pre-operatively, and maintaining a well nourished diet.

Robert E. Zaworski, MD (retired) · Answer

It takes weeks to months to fully recovery from an abdominoplasty.  Some patients need more time than others to heal.  Continue wearing your compression garment and exercise if your surgeon has cleared you for this.  Eat healthy and drink plenty of fluids.  Discuss your concerns with your surgeon at your next follow up visit.

8 weeks post TT with lipo, bloating and discomfort. Advice? (photos)

Answers (5)

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