Would putting ice over my lower abdomen help the swelling go down sooner?

Let swelling subside on its own. You are numb in your abdomen. Ice or heat will damage your skin and you will not be able to feel it. Don't.

I would avoid ice. It is a common complaint for patients that undergo tummy tucks to feel swollen after surgery. A few things that may help: 1. After surgery,make sure your garment is still giving you the appropriate compression. If too loose, it's not helping. If its too tight, your legs will swell.2. decrease yout salt intake. Drink plenty of water. That helps alot with the swelling. Many times patients drink less water thinking it will make the swelling resolve. The opposite is true. 3. Change positions frequently. If you are in a chair/desk position most of the time. Make sure you are getting up and walking around frequently to help with circulation. 4. Eat high fiber fruits and veggies to help with constipation and bloating which can also make you feel even more uncomfortable and "tight" in a compression garment.I hope this helps.

Thanks for your question regarding tummy tuck.  Swelling is very common after this procedure and may linger for up to 6 months  However, you might want to check back with your surgeon so he or she might examine you to determine what may be causing the swelling (and if it is abnormal).  Wishing you the best,Steven Camp MD#HappyCamperMD 

Tummy tuck swelling can be due to a number of issues including:      seroma,hematoma,normal swelling, residual muscle looseness.