What Causes Swelling After A Tummy Tuck?
Swelling happens because your body sends fluids to the surgical site in order to heal. During a tummy tuck at St. George Utah, Dr. Ahmed removes excess skin and fat while also repairing any loosened or separated abdominal muscles. The surgical process can cause trauma to the tissues, triggering your body’s natural response of delivering extra blood flow and lymphatic fluid to the area. While you may feel a little frustrated waiting for the swelling to go down, just remember that it’s all part of a healthy recovery. You’ll begin to see your results before you know it.Typical Post-Tummy Tuck Swelling Timeline
- First Few Days: Right after surgery, you’ll likely notice the most significant swelling. You may also experience some bruising and discomfort, which can be managed with pain medications and by following your post-operative instructions.
- First Two Weeks: During this time, swelling should gradually start to decrease. You’ll still need to wear compression garments, which help reduce puffiness and support your healing muscles.
- One to Three Months: By now, much of the initial swelling should have subsided, but you may still notice some residual puffiness, especially toward the end of the day or after strenuous activity.
- Three to Six Months: Many patients see a marked improvement in swelling at the three-month mark, with their final results becoming increasingly visible. However, swelling can take up to six months (or even a little longer) to fully resolve.
Top Post-Surgery Care Tips
- Wear Your Compression Garment: Be sure to follow Dr. Ahmed’s instructions when it comes to wearing your compression garment. These garments can have a big effect when it comes to reducing swelling. They help support your abdomen, promote proper blood flow, and minimize fluid buildup.
- Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins and can aid your body’s natural healing processes.
- Follow a Healthy Diet: A balanced diet with a focus on lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables can help support tissue repair. Reducing sodium intake may also help limit swelling.
- Gentle Movement: Light walking is encouraged during recovery since it helps improve circulation. However, you should avoid intense workouts, heavy lifting, or strenuous activities until Dr. Ahmed clears you.
- Listen to Your Body: Everyone heals at different rates. If you’re feeling extra sore or notice increased swelling, consider slowing down a bit or speaking with our team for guidance.
