What is Causing Swelling After Tummy Tuck and Liposuction?

Swelling normally takes a few weeks to subside. On average, most of the swelling goes away after about 3 months, and depending on the extent of surgery, this may even take up to 6 months. A full tummy tuck will involve a lengthier recovery period than a mini. During these weeks and months, you'll notice the swelling gradually lessening.In the meantime, follow your surgeon's post-surgery care instructions and wear your compression garment as recommended. Your garment will help control swelling by encouraging your body to absorb and eliminate fluids that are causing the swelling. I don't recommend using ice packs since the area may be numb and you may get frostbite because of the lack of sensation.Here are some other tips to deal with swelling:stay well hydrated and go to the washroom regularlyavoid salty foods and eat healthilyget plenty of rest, but also try to move around a bit at a leisurely pace to keep your circulation going when you're not lying downOnce you have adequately recovered, you can consider lymphatic massage, but only with your surgeon's advice

Thank you for your question regarding the swelling you are experiencing after your tummy tuck, muscle repair, and liposuction. Swelling is a common part of the healing process following these procedures, and it can persist for several weeks or even months. The swelling you describe above your incision line could be due to several factors. One possibility is that the area above the incision is where the most extensive tissue manipulation and muscle repair occurred, causing more significant swelling in that region. Additionally, gravity can cause fluid to accumulate above the incision line. The body also responds to surgical trauma by sending fluids to the area to aid in healing, which can contribute to localized swelling.

It's good that your surgeon has ruled out a seroma, which is a collection of fluid that can sometimes form after surgery. Other causes of swelling can include normal postoperative inflammation and the body’s response to the surgical repair of the muscle. It's essential to follow your surgeon's postoperative care instructions closely, including wearing any recommended compression garments, as these can help manage swelling.

If the swelling persists or if you have concerns, it's always best to consult with your surgeon. They can provide specific guidance and ensure that your healing process is on track. Good luck with your recovery.


Sincerley,
Dr. Katzen

Your swelling is a normal finding following abdominoplasty
surgery. The wound healing process following this procedure lasts for over a
year. Most of the swelling resolves in six to eight weeks, but small amounts of
swelling may persist for up to a year. The procedure inevitably interrupts the
abdominal lymphatic drainage and this takes time to re-establish itself.Patients
can minimize swelling with compression garments, massage and limitations on
activity level. It’s important to realize that swelling is a normal part of
wound healing and should resolve with time.