swelling after abdomnioplasty

[Kalee]

I'm a competitive cyclist, had a tummy tuck 4 weeks ago. I totally laid off of any type of exercise for 24 days,  Drainage tubes were removed at 19 days.  My doctor said I could workout lightly at 3 weeks and get back on my bike at 4 weeks.  I"ve worn the compression garment religiously. My problem is I'm swelling above the scar,  but not below it.  Needless to say, It's very uncomfortable. Also, My skin is still tight enough that I'm not standing totally upright and it's difficult to breath deep. Is this normal or am I doing something wrong.  My stomach looks great, its just a little tight.  How long does it take to stretch out abit? And- How does riding affect the swelling?? I have a race this weekend.

[Kalee]

Will a higher heart rate affect the swelling and increase the possibility of fluid accumulation above the incision?  I've ridden my mountain bike twice and road bike twice,  I felt great all 4 rides except for fear of fluid pockets. Any helpful hints for the race this weekend?  Will ice help at all.  Also,  this is crazy,  a nurse friend said to put cabbage leaves on my abdomen,  cover it with saran wrap for an hour,  then change the leaves.  This actually helped!!!
Thank you for you help and advice.

[Howard Rosenberg, MD]

At four weeks after any procedure or trauma, scarring is at its most disorganized and thickest.  This is probably contributing to your inability to stand completely straight, the skin tightness, and the fullness above the scar.  The scar will mature gradually over the next three or four months and these problems will disappear.  Be patient with this.  You may want to wear the compression garment for the race.