Is Tummy Tuck Swelling Long-term or Permanent?

Question

I read this on a message board concerning swelling after a tummy tuck:"...the lymph normally flows towards the groin, but after surgery it cannot go through the scar tissue and needs to be re-routed up to the nodes in the arm pits."I would like to know, is this true? If so, is the condition permanent?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding swelling after a tummy tuck and whether it can become a long-term or permanent issue. Swelling is a very common part of the healing process following a tummy tuck, but it is typically temporary.

After a tummy tuck, the body’s lymphatic system may be disrupted due to the removal of skin and fat and the tightening of muscles. This can cause fluid retention and swelling in the abdominal area. While it's true that lymph fluid normally flows toward the groin, and surgery can cause some temporary blockage due to scar tissue, the body usually adapts and re-routes the lymph fluid through other channels over time.

In most cases, swelling subsides within a few months, with the majority of it resolving within the first 3 to 6 months. However, some patients may experience mild, residual swelling for up to a year as the body continues to heal. The condition is not permanent, as the lymphatic system will eventually adjust, allowing fluid to drain normally again.

To minimize swelling and promote healing, plastic surgeons often recommend wearing a compression garment, staying well-hydrated, and avoiding strenuous activities. Lymphatic drainage massage can also help encourage fluid movement and reduce swelling.

If you have any concerns about prolonged swelling, I recommend following up with your plastic surgeon to ensure everything is healing as expected.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Significant swelling after exercise may occur after these operations;  this may persist  during the first year  postoperatively, sometimes longer, after tummy tuck surgery (it will dissipate once the lymphatic/venous drainage system has returned back to normal function). Sometimes, the use of a compressive garment may be helpful; hopefully, you will find one that you can utilize without  it being too much of a nuisance. Best wishes.

David Rankin, MD · Answer

You will definitely have swelling after a tummy tuck that may last for months after surgery. It will go away through time as your body creates new channels in which to drain off any extra fluid. With time and patience, a tummy tuck is a procedure with an extremely high patient satisfaction.

Scott E. Kasden, MD, FACS · Answer

The lymph channels will increase in size and allow more drainage so that the abdomen swelling really starts to come down after about 3 months, and continues for a year or more.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi!
With a well done tummy tuck, the deep lymphatic vessels are preserved, and lymphatic obstruction does not lead to long swelling.  All the swelling should be gone one month after the surgery.

Is Tummy Tuck Swelling Long-term or Permanent?

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Is Tummy Tuck Swelling Long-term or Permanent?

Answers (7)

Answer: Long term

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Answer: Tummy tuck and swelling

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