5 weeks post op Tummy Tuck, lipo and muscle repair. Is this normal swelling? (photos)

Question

Hello Drs! I'm 5 weeks post op full TT, lipo, w/ muscle repair & Im wondering if my swelling seems normal? According to my doc it will begin decreasing soon(Tick tock, tick tock). My concern is that my tummy doesn't look flat, I look somewhat pregnant. Also, towards the afternoon my tummy gets uncomfortably hard, especially after eating (small meals). Is this normal? Ps I started my period today for the 1st time since my surg, hoping that might be contributing to my full belly look? Thank you!

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Healing after tummy tuck or mommy makeoverthere is a range of swelling that can be normal. i would continue to wear a garment for compression to help with your swelling. sometimes diuretics help   obviously discuss this with your surgeon

Michael Law, MD · Answer

Discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Some people do experience prolonged selling. Be sure to follow your doctors orders.

Stephen M. Herring, MD, DDS · Answer

From your images you appear to have an excellent result from your procedure.  Normal means "usual", so I would not describe your swelling as normal, because one is not normally swollen.  The swelling you have might be described as typical, meaning it is "characteristic" after tummy tuck surgery.  It takes many months for swelling to subside with this procedure, and from your images your course is what would be expected.  The appearance of your surgical scar is excellent.  The contour of your abdomen is excellent, which is a result of your surgeon's skill and experience.  From your images, the result deserves an A+.  The PM swelling that you describe seems to be common after tummy tuck.  It does take some time for the circulation to reestablish, and the final result is sometimes not seen for 2 years.  Tick tock indeed.  It just takes some time.Hope this helps.Disclaimer: The most accurate medical advice requires a complete history and physical with a personal consultation.  This is rendered only as general information and is not medical advice.  Medical advice can only be obtained by personal contact with a qualified professional.  This response does not establish a physician patient relationship.

Patricia Yugueros, MD · Answer

Yes, it is very normal. It looks as if you are healing very well, swelling after tummy tuck can take up to a year and yes, you retain more fluids and may feel more swollen as the day goes by and during your periods. Be patient, you are doing great.

5 weeks post op Tummy Tuck, lipo and muscle repair. Is this normal swelling? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Normal swelling after tummy tuck

Answer: Normal swelling after tummy tuck

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5 weeks post op Tummy Tuck, lipo and muscle repair. Is this normal swelling? (photos)

Answers (4)

Answer: Normal swelling after tummy tuck

Answer: Normal swelling after tummy tuck

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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.