Swelling is a typical side effect after a tummy tuck, regardless of the style of incision or the experience of the surgeon you chose. Swelling, like many other side effects, varies according to on your immune system and healing process. And, as you may get, it is an inevitable side effect that you will experience.
Is it normal to have swelling after a tummy tuck?
When the surgery is over, your body sends white blood cells and other healing chemicals to the surgery site to begin the healing process. During the early phases of healing, more fluids will cause the region to enlarge. As a result, swelling is a fully natural response to an injury, which is why the majority of swelling will be situated near the incision site. A compression garment will be offered to minimize swelling and improve results.
As a result, it is an unavoidable side effect that you will feel following a stomach tuck; however, there is no need to panic because it is a step or stage in the normal course of your recovery.
On the other hand, as your capacity to move will be enhanced through time, you when you feel good enough to take short walks around the room or house, which you are living in, will boost the blood flow and each and every inches of your body will get the oxygen and nutrition. That will ease your recovery and consequently, you will be able to fight against the swelling issue.
To summarize, after a tummy tuck, your abdominal area will feel tight and swollen, with swelling peaking 4 to 5 days later. However, you may have swelling for up to three months after surgery, and your lower body may take up to four months to settle down and revert to its natural or ideal shape.
How to reduce swelling after a tummy tuck
In the course of the recovery period, the first rule is to be patient and allow your body to heal. This also is the key to resolving or reducing swelling. Swelling may persist if you hasten the healing process or overexert yourself. Touching your stitches or incision may introduce bacteria into the area, resulting in an infection, so do not touch them. Furthermore, avoid activities that demand you to use your abdominal muscles in particular. When your muscles are stretched taut during surgery, they need time to recuperate before they can be triggered.
The other elements that you may reduce swelling if you follow;
- It will be difficult to perform certain very simple actions for oneself during the first week. You’ll need an adult to help you with almost everything, including food preparation, getting into and out of bed, dressing, and washing. Allow whoever is with you to help you as much as you need following the operation. Even if you’re used to taking care of most home tasks, now is the time to relax and focus on your recovery!
- Always wear the compression garment. It can be uncomfortable at times, but it can help reduce edema.
- Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated, as this helps the body repair and decreases swelling.
- Consume a protein smoothie 1-2 times per day. Protein helps carry water from the epidermis to the circulatory system, where it can be evacuated. It also helps with the whole recuperation process!
- You can occasionally get up and go for a short walk. Moving causes blood vessels to be compressed, improving overall flow.
To summarize, you will almost certainly have swelling following surgery, particularly in the first 3 or 4 days; nevertheless, this does not imply that you will have no control over it. You may be able to deal with the swelling issue by just following your surgeon’s advice.
How long does swelling goes down after a tummy tuck?
After around two months, the majority of the swelling goes away. Although about 80% of the swelling should go away following surgery, many people endure moderate swelling that can continue for up to a year. After two months, you will have a fair idea of what your ultimate results will be and will be able to resume most activities.
On the other hand, the time it takes for swelling to subside and the amount you will experience following your tummy tuck surgery will range depending on the treatment plan you choose. A drainless tummy tuck, often known as a tiny tummy tuck, requires less recovery time and swelling than a traditional tummy tuck. In contrast, combining a tummy tuck with liposuction may result in swelling in other parts of the body.
As a result, there is no specific time frame to offer you in terms of recovery, but you will feel better and be able to resume your normal routine two months after the surgery.
References:
https://www.nybgplasticsurgery.com/body/tummy-tuck/swelling-after-tummy-tuck/
https://vipplasticsurgery.com/blogs/3-tips-to-reduce-swelling-after-a-tummy-tuck
