Frequently Asked Questions

* Swelly belly? Tender belly?

It seems that my wife's belly swells up by the end of the day. She thinks she is growing and yet, after resting during the night, she wakes up with less of a belly. What is this and what causes it?


This is what we refer to as "swelly belly".

It is the body's reaction to the trauma to the abdominal tissues, gasses used during surgery, and/or fluids collecting in the tissues during the healing process. (Just like the swelling you get when you've sprained your ankle.)

Swelly belly may last, on and off, for several weeks or even months. It is made worse by doing too much,for example: lifting things that are too heavy, standing too long, wearing clothing that is too tight. It also seems to be worse in the evenings.

There isn't really anything that speeds up its disappearance, except being careful not to over do things.

Sometimes a good support panty can help too, but again, make sure it isn't too tight, or it can make the problem worse. (Support panties work with swelly belly like putting a pressure bandage on a sprained ankle can take the swelling in the ankle down.) Occasionally, ice packs or a heating pad may help too, but check with the doctor first before using either.

If her tummy becomes hot or red or painful, please call the doctor. This is NOT normal and NOT part of the normal post-op swelling.