7 months post op - is swelling normal at this point in recovery? (photos)

Question

Had my procedure 7 months ago, had a large muscle separation from my belly button and upwards but no separation below my belly button. The separation was repaired and also a small umbilical hernia. I started noticing right away that my upper abdomen was swollen, the surgeon said it was because of the stitches. I am now 7 Months post OP and still very swollen. Is this normal? My surgeon still says its swelling in my “soft parts”. Im now trying to loose weight in hopes that it will make it better

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello Elinm85,

After examining your photos and considering your description, it appears that the swelling you are experiencing may be due to visceral fat, which is the fat surrounding your organs. This type of fat can contribute to a persistent bulge in the upper abdomen.

While some swelling is normal in the months following surgery, it is uncommon to still experience significant swelling 7 months post-op. Losing weight may indeed help reduce this swelling, as excess fat can contribute to abdominal distension.

If you're struggling to lose weight on your own, there are medications available that can assist with weight loss. Zepbound and Mounjaro are both effective options that your healthcare provider may prescribe to aid in your weight loss journey.

However, it's essential to discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon to ensure there are no underlying issues contributing to the swelling. They can provide personalized recommendations and monitor your progress to help you achieve your desired results.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Elinm85,
I understand your concern. 7 months after surgery your results are final. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thanks so much for your question,

Each person's body responds differently to surgery, and some individuals may experience prolonged swelling due to variations in healing processes, genetics, and other factors.

Swelling can still be normal at 7 months post-op following a tummy tuck. While most of the significant swelling typically subsides within the first few weeks to months after surgery, it's not uncommon for some residual swelling to persist for several months.

But, based on your photos, it appears that you could benefit from an intensive liposuction procedure targeting the abdomen, waist, and flanks to enhance your body contour. Additionally, considering skin tightening treatments could further enhance your results, achieving even greater improvement.

Sincerely, 
Dr. Emmanuel Mallol

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At seven months post op swelling from surgery has resolved.  The contour that concerns you is likely from visceral fat as well as abdominal wall laxity.  Visceral fat is the fat behind the abdominal wall that surrounds your organs.  It can't be addressed by a tummy tuck or liposuction but weight loss should improve it.  Abdominal wall laxity can be addressed by the tummy tuck.

Carmina Cardenas, MD · Answer

I can see in your before and after photos you had a protruding abdomen as result of combination of issues: visceral fat which surgery won’t fix, loose muscle which could be fixed through a thorough muscle repair but the muscle is expandable because it is literally a thin steak

7 months post op - is swelling normal at this point in recovery? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Protruding abdomen.

Answer: Protruding abdomen.

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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

7 months post op - is swelling normal at this point in recovery? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Protruding abdomen.

Answer: Protruding abdomen.

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.