Abdominoplasty: How long does swelling last and how to manage it

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) is a cosmetic surgery designed to remove excess skin and fat from the abdomen area, giving it a flatter and firmer appearance. In addition to this, the procedure also helps to strengthen the abdominal muscles. Many people choose abdominoplasty after childbirth or significant weight loss.

Sometimes, abdominoplasty is accompanied by liposuction for better results. Although it is not a solution for weight loss, surgery contributes to achieving a flatter and more toned abdomen, especially after body changes such as:

• Significant weight loss;
• Task;
• Previous operations;
• The natural aging process.

Types of abdominoplasty

There are several variants of this intervention, depending on the needs of each person:

• Complete tummy tuck: The surgeon will make an incision in the lower abdomen, above the pubic area, and the length of the cut depends on how much excess skin is present.
• Partial tummy tuck: This procedure requires a smaller incision and is indicated when there is a small amount of excess skin. The cut is placed between the navel and the lower abdomen, without involving the navel.
• Circumferential tummy tuck: This type of intervention targets not only the front of the abdomen, but also the lateral areas and back. The incision is longer and surrounds the body, providing a complete reshaping of the waist.
• “Fleur-de-lis” type abdominoplasty: The surgeon makes incisions both vertically and horizontally, forming a “T” shaped scar. This method is indicated for people who have lost a large amount of weight, usually over 45 kg.

What do you need to know before surgery?

Before opting for a tummy tuck, it is important to take into account the following aspects:

• The results of abdominoplasty are generally permanent. However, large fluctuations in weight after surgery can affect the appearance achieved. If you are planning a significant weight loss or plan to have pregnancies in the future, it is recommended to postpone the intervention.
• Abdominoplasty is not a solution for stretch marks. However, any stretch marks in the treated area will be removed along with the excess skin.
• Smokers have a higher risk of developing complications from surgery. To reduce these risks and improve your overall health, it is advisable to quit smoking before surgery.
• It is important to make sure that this decision is made for you and not influenced by others. Inform yourself properly before deciding to have a tummy tuck.

Go to this link after to see more examples before and after:  abdominoplasty results.

Immediately after abdominoplasty

After surgery, you can expect:

• A drainage tube to prevent fluid buildup;
• Bruising and swelling,
• Possible numbness in the area between the navel and the incision;
• Pain and discomfort;
• Difficulty sitting up straight at first;
• A “pulling” sensation in the abdomen area;
• Bandages and compresses to reduce swelling.

Complications

Like any surgery, abdominoplasty involves certain risks, including:

• Wound infection, which may require antibiotic treatment;
• Pain and discomfort at the incision site;
• Hematoma (accumulation of blood at the site of surgery, which may require drainage);
• Visible and prominent scars, including keloid or hypertrophic scars;
• Numbness in the operated areas, which is usually temporary;
• Skin healing problems, which may require a skin graft;
• Accumulation of fluid under the skin (seroma), which may require drainage;
• The need for a blood transfusion (in rare cases of massive blood loss);
• Blood clots, which can be dangerous if they reach the lungs;
• Nausea and vomiting due to general anesthesia;

Certain medical conditions or lifestyle increase the risk of complications. For example, obese people have a higher risk of lung infections. Consult your doctor for more details.

Recovery after abdominoplasty

Follow your doctor’s advice, but some general recommendations include:

• Rest as much as possible
• Follow all wound care instructions
• Avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting for at least a month
• Notify your doctor if you experience bleeding, severe pain, or other unusual symptoms.

Your doctor may also recommend:

• Wear compression stockings to prevent deep vein thrombosis for 7-10 days
• Use a compression garment on the operated area for a few weeks.

Swollen abdomen after abdominoplasty

It is normal to have a swollen abdomen after abdominoplasty, swelling that can persist for about two months. If you follow the postoperative care instructions correctly and do not strain your body too much, your recovery will go successfully. Recovery time varies depending on the patient’s overall health and whether other interventions were performed during the operation.

The degree of swelling varies depending on the type of intervention. A mini tummy tuck causes less swelling and requires a shorter recovery time, compared to a classic tummy tuck. Combining this procedure with other operations will increase both swelling and the recovery period. Pain medications can also cause constipation, bloating, and an increase in swelling.

Stages of swelling after an abdominoplasty:

• 3 weeks after tummy tuck: Swelling is common in the lower abdomen, and patients will feel some stiffness around the belly button.
• 3 months after abdominoplasty: Major swelling in the lower abdomen begins to disappear, although slight swelling may still occur.
• 6 months after abdominoplasty: Bloating may persist, especially after long periods of standing, but a night’s rest helps reduce swelling.
• 8-10 months after abdominoplasty: Most of the swelling should disappear. However, fluid retention caused by diet or salt intake can cause a swollen abdomen.
• 1 year after abdominoplasty: Postoperative swelling will continue to decrease gradually, but each patient recovers at his or her own pace. If the swelling is unusual, it is advisable to consult your doctor.
• 2 years after abdominoplasty: The abdomen may still appear protruding due to visceral fat or weakened muscles. In these cases, weight loss can help reduce bloating, but most patients are completely cured.

How much does a tummy tuck cost?

At Soma Clinic, a partial abdominoplasty operation starts at €2,800, while a total abdominoplasty starts at €3,500. Visit the pricing page  to see more offers.

Sports after abdominoplasty – Frequently asked questions

When can I start exercising after abdominoplasty?

Patients can start light exercise about 7-10 days after surgery. After six weeks, most forms of exercise are allowed, but strenuous exercise and weight lifting should be avoided for at least 12 weeks. If you haven’t had muscle repair, you can resume strenuous exercise sooner after consulting your surgeon.

How long do I have to wait before I can walk after abdominoplasty?

Light walks are recommended after 3-4 days after surgery to improve blood circulation. Exercise should be avoided immediately after the intervention, but walking lightly around the house is indicated after the first two days, avoiding long walks in the first week.

When is it safe to do stretches after abdominoplasty?

Stretching exercises should be avoided for at least four weeks, to allow the body to heal properly. Stretching too early can affect the incision line, so it’s important to get enough rest and consult with your surgeon before resuming these exercises.

When can I do squats after abdominoplasty?

Light leg exercises are allowed for the first four weeks, but avoid heavy weight workouts. If pain or discomfort occurs, stop exercising and see your doctor immediately for an evaluation.

How long do I have to wait to walk on the treadmill?

Cardiovascular exercises can begin about six weeks after the operated area has healed sufficiently. Avoid prolonged or intense workouts and start gradually to improve blood circulation in the healing area.

When is the right time to do sit-ups after abdominoplasty?

It is recommended to avoid any abdominal strengthening exercises for at least three months, as they can increase the risk of complications. It is essential not to put pressure on your abdominal muscles, especially if you have had muscle repair.

How can I tone the abdomen after abdominoplasty?

Exercises to strengthen the abdomen should be avoided for a minimum of six weeks after surgery. Your doctor will tell you when you can safely start abdominal exercises. If you push too hard, there is a risk of affecting muscle repair, which may require corrective surgery.

References

Abdominoplasty (Tummy Tuck) – My Cleveland Clinic

Abdominoplasty (tummy tuck) – Better Health Channel

Exercise after Tummy Tuck – top tips – Centre for Surgery

How to Reduce Swelling After a Tummy Tuck – The Toronto Plastic Surgeons