2 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck and Increased Swelling, Is this Normal When Taking off Compression Garment?

Question

I had a full TT a little over 2 weeks ago and was taken out of the compression garment 3 days ago. Since then I have had increased swelling throughout my stomach. I also have some increased pain. Is this something that normally happens when the compression garment comes off or should I be worried?

Kelly Gallego, MD, FACS · Answer

Every plastic surgeon manages their patients a little differently after surgery.  Because it takes roughly 4-6 weeks for all the swelling to resolve after a tummy tuck, I generally have my patients wear their abdominal binders for up to six weeks.  If you've noticed a dramatic change in the appearance of your abdomen since removing the garment, you may be dealing with residual swelling or you may have developed a fluid collection called a seroma.  Seromas are somewhat common and can sometimes require aspiration of the fluid in the office.  It's probably best for you discuss any changes you've noticed with your plastic surgeon.

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

The wound
healing process following abdominoplasty 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 levels.It’s important to remember that swelling is a
normal part of wound healing and should resolve with time.It’s not unusual for patients to
develop increased swelling when they discontinue their support garments.When this situation arises it’s reasonable to
continue the use of compression garments for longer periods of time.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Less than one month after surgery, the recovery process is still early, but concerns as to any minimal nature of your procedure should be discussed with your surgeon. Continue to allow the full 3-6 months for swelling to reduce and muscles to recover and then determine the need for revision. Best of luck!

Michael Constantin Gartner, DO · Answer

This is common. If you feel more comfortable with the compression garment, you can put it back on. However, tell your surgeon about the pain, just in case it needs to be checked out.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

It is common for swelling to become very apparent once you've removed your compression garment. This swelling will subside gradually over the months following surgery. You can always start wearing your compression garment again but talk to your surgeon for their advice.

2 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck and Increased Swelling, Is this Normal When Taking off Compression Garment?

Answers (10)

Answer: Swelling can get worse without garment

Answer: Swelling can get worse without garment

Answer: Swelling after removing compression garment

Answer: Swelling after removing compression garment

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2 Weeks Post Tummy Tuck and Increased Swelling, Is this Normal When Taking off Compression Garment?

Answers (10)

Answer: Swelling can get worse without garment

Answer: Swelling can get worse without garment

Answer: Swelling after removing compression garment

Answer: Swelling after removing compression garment

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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.