9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this? (photos)

Question

I am 9 months post surgery. I understand these are my permanent results. I am swollen and have a lot of tightness. Especially from my mid to lower tummy. It actually hurts when I stretch or when I do ab exercises. What could be wrong? I do have a surgeon but I would like a community opinion. My surgeon is board certified & tenured, but keeps telling me give it time :( I didnt even want a full tuck, only a mini. Button is flat bc “i dont have enough fat.” Before& after photo included.

Agustina Hilario Duran, MD · Answer

At 9 months post-op, persistent swelling and tightness could be due to:
Scar tissue (adhesions): Internal scars can cause tightness and discomfort.Residual swelling: Some people take longer to fully heal.Muscle repair: If muscle tightening was done, it may still feel tight or painful during exercise.Nerve healing: Nerve regeneration can cause discomfort.Your flat belly button might be due to surgical technique. If the discomfort persists, consider a second opinion. Healing can take up to a year, but your symptoms deserve attention.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

I'm sorry to hear that you are unhappy with your results.  Has your surgeon performed an ultrasound to check for a seroma?  Was muscle repair completed?  If not, you may be seeing abdominal wall laxity. It could also be visceral (internal) fat.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear tplan,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Alan Gonzalez, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello @tplan, thank you for your question and showing you pictures. It is important to take into account several aspects among which is the surgical technique applied, and to evaluate if there is something else at a systemic level. Remember that a surgery has a process for healing that can take to a year. The best course of action is to consult one or several board certified plastic surgeon for more information and options tailored specifically to your needs. Best wishes! Alan Gonzalez MD, FACS. American Society of Plastic Surgery Member (ASPS), International Federation for Adipose Therapeutics and Science” Member (IFATS), Colombian Society of Plastic Surgery member (SCCP)

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

For residual swelling and tightness, I would suggest being checked for food allergies.  Your medical doctor can order these tests, and food allergies are very common. At this point in time, swelling is gone from the tummy tuck.

9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: 9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this?

Answer: 9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this?

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: 9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this?

Answer: 9 months after tummy tuck - Swelling and tightness still present. What can be causing this?

Answer: Abdomen

Answer: Abdomen

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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.