You needed drains after abdominoplasty.

George J. Beraka, MD answers: Drainage and swelling after Smart Lipo and Tummy Tuck

I had a Tummy Tuck a week ago. The doctor did Smart Lipo and then the Tummy Tuck. I ended up with a huge incision from waist to waist, and I am actually larger in my midsection than I was pre-surgery from all the swelling. I don't see any way for the liquid to come out, I don't have any drainage. My doctor wants me to do 3 sessions of ultrasonic therapy to help my healing and drainage. I am already unhappy with the results. Is this normal? Is this worth the extra pay for the treatments? Please advise.


George J. Beraka, MD
6 months ago
By George J. Beraka, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

This is an old question, so I hope your problem has resolved. This what I would say in general:

1)   I don't know any experienced, successful, board certified plastic surgeons who use SmartLipo.

2)   In New York City, we always use drains after a tummy tuck, and leave them in several days.

3)  Again, in Manhattan after an abdominoplasty, if there is unusal swelling, we do a sonogram to see if there is a liquid collection (seroma) that can be aspirated.

Web reference: http://www.drberaka.com/proc_performed/body_tummytuck.html
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More answers to “Drainage and swelling after Smart Lipo and Tummy Tuck”

A: One week is very early post op.

David Shafer, MD
10 months ago
By David Shafer, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

SunnySideUp, One week is very early post op to determine whether you are happy with the outcome. You will still have significant swelling and bruising and discomfort. However, you should have some drainage. Did the surgeon place drains in you and take them out already. If not, you may have a fluid collection which needs to be drained in the office. Good luck with your recovery. David Shafer, MD New York City

Web reference: http://www.RealPlasticSurgery.com
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A: Tummy tuck and smart lipo

Steven Wallach, MD
10 months ago
By Steven Wallach, MD - Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Post-surgical swelling is very common after a tummy tuck and certainly even more so after combining it with liposuction. This should get better with time. Just be patient.

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