How Long Does Swelling Last After a Tummy Tuck?
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Full Tummy Tuck
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A full tummy tuck will require an extensive healing process. In the procedure, an incision is made across the entire lower abdomen, above the pubic bone. The abdomen skin is pulled from the abdominal wall. The abdominal wall muscles are tightened and sutured together. Any excess skin is removed, and a new belly button is created. All incisions will either be sutured or stapled shut.
Swelling
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Because of the type of incision made with a tummy tuck, pain and swelling can be substantial. However, people who are in good health tend to recover quicker. According to the Mayo Clinic, swelling can last anywhere from six weeks to three months. An abdominal binder will be placed around the waist after surgery in order to reduce initial swelling. Scarring will also seem as if it is swollen within the first few months, but scarring will become less puffy after about nine months.
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Partial Tummy Tuck
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A partial tummy tuck is less invasive than a full tummy tuck. The incision in a partial tummy tuck is smaller, so recovery time will be less extensive. Liposuction may be included in the tummy tuck procedure in order to contour the waist more. The surgery can be done in one day, and you will be released on the same day, unless there is a complication.
Partial and Swelling
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Swelling with a partial tummy tuck is not as severe with a full tummy tuck. As with a full tummy tuck, an abdominal binder will be placed around the waist to reduce swelling. Swelling will be significant within the first few weeks, but by six weeks to two months, swelling should be abated.
Extended Tummy Tuck
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An extended tummy tuck removes skin from the abdomen, as well as the sides and hip region. This type of surgery is usually performed on individuals who have lost substantial amounts of weight. An incision is made across the entire abdomen and around to the back of the hips. The abdominal muscles are pulled tight and sutured, and a new belly button is created. All excess skin is removed, and the incision is then sutured.
Swelling After an Extended Tuck
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An extended tummy tuck is a dramatic procedure that can involve a lot of pain and swelling. Drainage tubes are placed within the incision to help drain fluid from the incision. Swelling and bruising are substantial within the first few days of the procedure. This is normal. However, if you begin to experience nausea/vomiting, fever over 101 degrees Fahrenheit, and pain that cannot be alleviated with pain medication, seek immediate medical attention, as this is a sign of infection. Swelling with an extended tummy tuck should resolve within six weeks to two months.
Risks
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Getting a tummy tuck involves some risks. According to the Mayo Clinic, you can become susceptible to infection, seroma (fluid that collects under the skin), hematomas (blood that pools under the skin), and a reduced sensation of the abdominal area. Other risks can include bleeding, allergic reaction to anesthesia, and unsightly scarring. Smoking can increase the risks of complications and larger scars.
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