14 weeks post TT & lipo of flanks. I still look fat/swollen. Will I continue to look like this for the next 3-6 months? (Photo)

Question

I am 14 weeks PO (tummy tuck & lipo of flanks) and still look fat/swollen. I saw my PS last week, and he felt around for fluid (seroma) but said it must be swelling. I understand that swelling is more noticeable on petite women (I am 5'4"/116 lbs), but I look pregnant and haven't seen any improvement. I wear a compression garment 24/7 and still wear my binder at night. I started to exercise again at 6 weeks PO, but it does not get any better. Any advice? My appearance is really getting me down.

Larry S. Nichter, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

It is perfectly normal to have numbness or swelling after a tummy tuck which is expected to slowly have sensation return to normal after many months and even years following your surgery. Although uncommon, permanent numbness and tingling can occur after tummy tuck surgery, especially in the lower mid line area between the scar and belly button. In most cases there is some sensation present, just not the normal pre-surgical amount. #tummytucknumbness #tummytuckpost-op

Himansu Shah, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question in the photos. It is not unusual for someone to have swelling post tummy tuck and Liposuction for up to 3 to 6 months. It is nice to hear that you have recently seen your plastic surgeon and he or she has examined you and ruled out a seroma. From looking at the photos that was the first thing that came to my mind is that you possibly have a seroma. Other consideration is that maybe your plication sutures separated and you have some lower abdominal wall laxity and you have protrubarence. In either case as long as you have seen and have been examined by your board certified  plastic surgeon provides you with some comfort. I would wait for 6 months to see home much swelling subsides. Good luck.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hi, it is not uncommon to have some residual swelling 14 weeks after tummy tuck surgery.   If your PS has examined your recently and ruled out a fluid collection or other problem, hopefully this will continue to improve over several months.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

To this point, 14 weeks postop, the protruding abdomen could be most likely due to loose muscle if the seroma was eliminated as being the cause. Talk to your doctor. Be encouraged. Everything can be improved!!!dr. Cardenas

Martin Jugenburg, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is common to have slight swelling at your stage of healing. From the photograph the swelling you are experiencing should be investigated. Speak with your surgeon about a potential ultrasound. Hope this helps,

14 weeks post TT & lipo of flanks. I still look fat/swollen. Will I continue to look like this for the next 3-6 months? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Abdomen protruding

Answer: Abdomen protruding

Answer: 14 weeks post TT and lipo of flanks.

Answer: 14 weeks post TT and lipo of flanks.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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14 weeks post TT & lipo of flanks. I still look fat/swollen. Will I continue to look like this for the next 3-6 months? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: Abdomen protruding

Answer: Abdomen protruding

Answer: 14 weeks post TT and lipo of flanks.

Answer: 14 weeks post TT and lipo of flanks.

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.