I'm 8 weeks post op with my tummy tuck. How much of my abdominal area is still swollen? (Photo)

Swelling after tummy tuck usually lasts 3 to 6 months, but most of the swelling is gone after a few weeks. Healthy people at their ideal weight should have the best overall recovery, but some of this will depend upon the surgical technique and adherence to postoperative protocols. Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

It's difficult to give specific advice without seeing your preoperative photos. Some swelling is still expected at this phase of recovery but it does appear that your belly button may need to be revised at some point. I encourage you to discuss your concerns with your surgeon and closely follow post op instructions for optimal results.

It is very hard to critique another’s work without seeing the patient before surgery. The appearance of your navel is unusual (unless you had some pre surgical factors such as previous scars, large umbilical hernia etc). As for the lower abdomen, there still may be some swelling. If you had excess thickening of the tissue on the abdomen prior to surgery, it would remain the same thickness unless liposuction was also done. Also, if you happened to have a moderate amount of intraabdominal fat, the belly may not be able to be flattened.

Thank you for great question and post op photos.It is very common for swelling to last for months after a tummy tuck procedure. Swelling can also increase with with activity.Talking with your plastic surgeon about your concerns may help address your concerns and set your mind at ease.Have a great day.

Thank you for your question. It is still  too early to expect a flat tummy. Swelling such as yours at this point is extremely normal and will continue to some degree as you start to increase your activity. Your abdomen will continue to flatten over the next several weeks but you should definitely reach out to your surgeon with any concerns. Best of luck!

Sorry to hear that you’re not happy with your tummy tuck.
However, it’s hard to judge the results of your tummy tuck at this point because you’re still experiencing a lot of swelling. It can persist for up to six months after your surgery.
I suggest that you continue following the instructions of your reputable and board-certified plastic surgeon to ensure that you’re recovering well.
If you’re still unhappy with the results of your surgery after six months, then that’s when you should assk about revision surgery.
Best of luck!

Thank you for your question. It is very hard to tell exactly how much of your fullness is swelling but you will certainly have some degree of swelling for 3-6 months. If after 6 months you still feel that you have more fullness than you are happy with you may consider a second stage liposuction to fine tune things. Make sure you follow your surgeons post op instructions and eat a well balanced diet. Good luck! 
James Vogel, MD, FACS