I got a scar and swelling above my belly button after a tummy tuck.

I have had 2 TTs. One prior to gastric bypass in 2004. I never experienced swelling. After gastric bypass in 2008, losing 72 lbs, my stomach was not as tight as before...but it truly was not bad. I wanted the small bit of skin removed and so in 2010, I had a TT of which left me with a tiny FDL scar of which my doctor never told me he would perform...if he had told me prior, I would have opted out of the TT. After the TT, I asked why the scar. He said I didn't have enough skin. For such a long time, I couldn't even do a Superman stretch. My skin was so tight! I never started to swell above my belly button until about 8 years later. I hate it. The swelling triggers my arthritis in my lower spine. I look 4-5 months pregnant. I cannot stand it. I'm very depressed and gave up going out anywhere due to the pain and embarrassment.

Hello.

I am sorry to hear that you are having these issues after your tummy tuck. The first step would be to speak to your surgeon and get an assessment of the area. They may be able to diagnose the cause of the swelling and scarring and make recommendations on what you can do to address the issue. In some cases, further surgery may be recommended to reduce the swelling and scarring. Additionally, you may want to consider consulting with a physical therapist to help manage any pain and discomfort associated with the swelling and scarring. They may be able to provide you with exercises and stretches that can help reduce the pain and swelling associated with the scarring and arthritis.

If the swelling is persistent, your plastic surgeon may recommend a steroid injection to reduce the inflammation. Additionally, your doctor may recommend physical therapy or medications to help with the arthritis pain. If the swelling does not reduce with these treatments, you may need to consider liposuction or revision surgery to remove the excess scar tissue or fat.

Has your condition improved?