Is it Normal to Have a Bulge After Tummy Tuck Surgery?

There are a variety of issues that might arise when having a tummy tuck. It could be the case that your cosmetic surgeon was guilty of severe cosmetic malpractice in how they perform the surgery, or they may fail to giveyou proper aftercare instructions post-surgery. It could also be the case that your cosmetic surgeon simply did not have the necessary knowledge and training to carry out the tummy tuck procedure. 

Some warning signs of tummy tuck negligence include the following: 

Nerve damage
High-positioned/inappropriate scarring
Excessive puckering around scar line, which indicates inadequate skin/tissue removal 
Inappropriate performance of mini (rather than full) tummy tuck 
Asymmetry 
What is a tummy tuck?
A tummy tuck, sometimes referred to as abdominoplasty, is a cosmetic procedure performed to reduce and flatten the shape of a person’s abdominal area. In general, the process of a tummy tuck includes tightening the abdominal muscles and removing any excess fat and loose skin around the tummy area. It is important to note that tummy tucks are not a replacement for weight loss. They are designed only for those who are unable to get rid of stubborn fat areas by means of exercise and healthy eating. 

Common risks of tummy tucks include:

Fat necrosis (dead or damaged tissue)
Asymmetry 
Skin loss 
Infection 
Skin discolouration 

As the procedure is considered to be cosmetic surgery, abdominoplasty is not generally available through the NHS. It is important that you check the credentials of your cosmetic surgeon before agreeing to the procedure. 
Swelling
Swelling, or a bulge, in the tummy area post-surgery is normal and to be expected after a tummy tuck. In the stomach area of the body, the blood vessels and lymphatic vessels work as a drainage system for fluids. When these vessels are cut during the procedure, the body is only able to remove fluid in the area at a much slower rate than usual. 

Swelling is typically at its worst for the first 8-10 weeks post-surgery, though this recovery time may differ depending on the patient. As the body repairs the blood and lymphatic vessels, the swelling should continue to resolve. This healing process can sometimes take a full year to complete, so it is common to see swelling for a prolonged period of time after abdominoplasty. 
Ways to reduce swelling
Swelling is a natural part of the healing process; however, there are some things you can do to help reduce the level of severity.

It is vital that you listen to your cosmetic surgeon and their advice surrounding recovery. You will be instructed to wear a compression garment for the first few weeks, and it is important to make sure you do so. Other tips to help reduce swelling include: 

Get plenty of rest
Stay hydrated
Eat a healthy diet low in sodium 
Elevate your lower legs 
Contact us
If you have experienced any signs of negligence following your tummy tuck procedure, get in touch with our team to discuss the details of your case on a no win, no fee basis. You can call us on 0808 252 0175, or fill in our online contact form to request a callback.