During the post-surgery recovery period, some of the most common questions our team receive are, “Have I put on weight?” and “Why is my stomach bloated?”
The truth of the matter is that symptoms such as swelling, stomach distention and abdominal discomfort are very common after surgery. The good news is that these sensations are only temporary. At Hunter Plastic Surgery, we believe in being 100% upfront about the puffy stage of healing so you aren't surprised when it happens. Post-operative bloating and swelling usually peak 48 hours after surgery, but will mostly subside by the 12-week mark.
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Why does bloating and swelling happen after surgery?
There are many causes of stomach bloating and swelling after surgery.
1. The lymphatic system has been disrupted
Swelling occurs in the body as the lymphatics have been surgically disrupted. However, it is important to remember that swelling is an important part of the recovery process and is essential for healing! The swollen areas actually contain white blood cells and proteins that are needed to heal the surgical area.
2. Functions of the gastrointestinal tract slow down
Anaesthetic, pain relief, antibiotics and other medications all tend to have a “slowing” effect on the gut. This often means that you will experience post-operative constipation, which, of course, can lead to bloating and discomfort. This is why choosing a Specialist Plastic Surgeon is vital; you aren't just paying for the time in theatre, but for a medical team that manages your gut health and comfort throughout the entire 12-week recovery window.
3. IV fluids
During your operation, you will receive intravenous fluids to replenish your body’s fluids and balance your sodium levels. IV fluids can cause some bloating while your body regulates its fluid levels postoperatively.
4. You can’t move around as much as usual
When recovering from major surgery, you are simply not able to move around as much as you regularly would. This decrease in mobility can lead to fluid retention and increase your swelling and bloating symptoms. Without being able to participate in the physical activity you usually would, you may even recognise a small weight gain. This is completely normal! Once you have the all-clear to begin gentle movement and exercise, you will find that your weight returns to its normal level.
5. The Physical and Mental Toll
Bloating is often the biggest mental hurdle for our patients. It is difficult to see your new shape when you feel bloated, which may negatively affect the way you feel. This is why we use the Vectra 3D Simulation during your initial consultation. It provides a realistic result to look toward when the post-op swelling is at its peak. You’ve seen the blueprint of your result; you just have to wait for your body to finish the internal construction. Book your $100 Vectra 3D Simulation here to see your potential results.
What can I do to help reduce the bloating?
Post-surgical bloating and swelling are mostly eased with time. Although most swelling and bloating will clear by 12 weeks, you may find that swelling ebbs and flows for up to 12 months after surgery. Some ways you can help ease swelling, bloating and stomach discomfort are:
Gentle mobilisation (i.e. walking or gentle stretches your physio recommends post surgery) when you have the clearance to do so
Increase your fluid intake to flush the excess fluid from your body
Ensure your post-surgical diet is rich in fibre to aid bowel movements - this is the time to increase the whole grains, legumes, fruit and vegetables in your diet
Gentle stool softeners (such as Movicol sachets) can be utilised to help with post-surgery constipation and belly bloat
Cease stronger pain medication as soon as practical and replace with those that are gentler on the gut, such as paracetamol. It is important to note that post-surgical bloating and swelling cannot be improved with prescription medication.
Keep wearing your surgical garment to help minimise swelling.
We often see patients for revision surgery who felt ghosted by other clinics during this uncomfortable bloating phase. At Hunter Plastic Surgery, we don't disappear after the operation. Our nurses are here for every check-in to ensure your recovery is moving exactly as it should.
Although it’s uncomfortable, rest assured that post-surgical bloating and swelling are a completely normal part of the recovery process and will subside over time.
If you are still in the research phase and want a team that prioritises your aftercare as much as the surgery itself, we would love to help.
If you have any questions about your recovery process, please do not hesitate to contact me and our friendly team on 4920 7700 or click here to get in touch about a consultation.
Other blogs you might like
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- Breast reduction and tummy tuck surgery: Your week by week recovery guide with photos
- Minimising surgical scars
- When can I exercise after plastic surgery?
Blog Author:
Alecia Baker, Practice Nurse, Hunter Plastic Surgery
About Alecia
Alecia is a Practice Nurse at Hunter Plastic Surgery and has worked closely with Dr Nick Moncrieff, Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Newcastle, since 2018. She is a Registered Nurse with extensive experience in nursing and patient management in some of the busiest hospital settings in the Hunter! She really cares about helping our patients become healthy and happy. Her kind and calm manner help them feel comfortable during their journey with us.
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