3 weeks post op. Swell hell? Worried. (photos)

Question

I had full tummy tuck, muscle repair and lipo of flanks 3 weeks ago. I had minimal swelling until this week but my main concern is the swelling above belly button to breast bone. Its very puffy in comparison to lower abdominal swelling. My surgeons ruled out fluid but is this swelling common? I seem to have lost signt of any contour. Could my muscle repair have failed ?

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. You should expect to have swelling for three to six months following tummy tuck surgery. Use of a properly fitted compression garment will help decrease the length and severity of the post-operative swelling. As the swelling decreases, the contour of your abdomen, flanks, and hips will dramatically improve. Please follow your plastic surgeons specific advice regarding your level of physical activity. Hope this helps and good luck with your recovery.

William Andrade, MD · Answer

Hello, it's not uncommon to have intermittent swelling of the abdomen, particularly after a long day or after exercise.  However, if you feel the swelling is getting worse it is important to have ongoing advice and followup with your surgeon.

Charles Nduka, MD · Answer

Swelling is normally experienced after an abdominoplasty surgery. It may occur in different parts of your abdominal area and may persist for a few months. Wearing compression garments and massage over the area may help.

Tom Tracey Gallaher, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I want to tell you that swelling post tummy tuck can be frustrating! I always explain to my patients that you can have swelling for weeks and even months after this surgery. Tummy tucks are invasive and extensive and your body is still in the healing stage. Wearing a good compression garment such as Spanx or a post tummy tuck binder will help reduce swelling. I know it can be difficult to find clothes to fit over the binder but most patients opt for loose fitting clothing to conceal the binder. Your plastic surgeon may have different instructions so I would consult he or she but I typically keep my patients in compression for 6 weeks. A lot of them still choose to wear their Spanx for longer than this because of swelling that may linger for months post surgery. Be encouraged that the swelling will get better over time. Stay hydrated and take care of yourself, you have been through a lot with this surgery.

Hasan Ali, MBBS, MRCS, MS · Answer

Thank you for posting your question.  
Swelling after abdominoplasty is common specially when combine with Liposuction. It takes time to disappear. Also monitor your certain activity which may increase swelling.
Some of the question need to be answer. Is your compression garment very tight? Are you sitting too long?
I would recommend wearing an appropriate size garment, Massage areas of the surgery and regular follow up with your Plastic Surgeon. 
Wish you all the best.

3 weeks post op. Swell hell? Worried. (photos)

Answers (5)