Will "Roll" Above Mini-tummy Tuck Scar Flatten Out?

Question

I had a mini tummy tuck about 2 1/2 weeks ago. Just above the scar, there seems to be a 'roll' the length of the scar. Is this normal? If so, how long before it flattens out?

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This is not at all uncommon. The scar can act as a dam that retains fluid and keeps it from draining into the lymph nodes of the groin. You may want to check with your surgeon to make sure this is not a hematoma or seroma first.
Compression garments and manual lymphatic drainage may be useful in keeping this fluid collection to a minimum. Expect that it will be worse at the end of the day when the fluid has a greater tendency to collect due to gravity and you standing upright promoting drainage in a downward driection rather than to the sides when you are asleep at night and horizontal. As the scar softens, the fluid will pass through the tissues to the lymph nodes and diminish. This typically takes at least 2-3 months.
One thing that can make this worse is a tight dressing that acts like a tourniquet if it compresses the skin between your umbilicus and incision.

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi ginalynne,

It sounds like what you're experiencing is swelling, which is completely normal and to be expected after a tummy tuck procedure. Swelling can cause a temporary 'roll' appearance above the scar as the area heals and adjusts to the changes from surgery. Without photos, it's hard to give a precise assessment, but typically, most swelling resolves within the first few months post-surgery, though minor swelling can persist and gradually improve over 6 to 12 months.

Given that your question was posted 12 years ago, I'm curious about your long-term outcome and how you're doing now. I hope that the issue resolved as your body healed and that you are happy with your results. Swelling is a common part of the recovery process, and patience is key as the body takes time to fully heal and reveal the final results.

If you have any updates or further questions, feel free to share. I hope all is well with you.

Sincerely,

Dr. J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic and Aesthetic Surgeon

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS · Answer

Patients should anticipate swelling after a mini-tummy tuck procedure. The swelling may last one to two months and will improve with gentle massage and in my practice, oral intake of a Bruise-Pak supplement.

Fredrick A. Valauri, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have a roll above your tummy tuck scar for several weeks after a tummy tuck.

	Water runs down hill, and so, this swelling that is a normal part of the healing process.

	First, because swelling a expected following any surgery.

	Secondly, lymphatic drainage system has been disrupted by the lower abdominal incision, impairing your drainage until the wound heals fully and the lymphatic channels are restored.

	Sometimes the swelling in fluid under the flap which will be absorbed by your body over several weeks.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

More than likely the "roll" you are complaining about it swelling secondary to the surgery. The upper flap closure usually has more swelling because of the change in lymphatics after surgery. Give it some tiem to heal.

Will "Roll" Above Mini-tummy Tuck Scar Flatten Out?

Answers (8)

Answer: The Roll Above my Tummy tuck Scar

Answer: The Roll Above my Tummy tuck Scar

Answer: Roll above scar 21/2 wks post-op

Answer: Roll above scar 21/2 wks post-op

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mini Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Will "Roll" Above Mini-tummy Tuck Scar Flatten Out?

Answers (8)

Answer: The Roll Above my Tummy tuck Scar

Answer: The Roll Above my Tummy tuck Scar

Answer: Roll above scar 21/2 wks post-op

Answer: Roll above scar 21/2 wks post-op

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Mini Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.