Upper Abdomen Much Bigger Post-Op- Why?

Thank you for the question.

You may be able to assess the integrity of the abdominal wall muscle plication by  flexing at the waist (diving  position)  while palpating he upper abdominal wall area. If there is significant laxity/bulging in this area when you press inwards you may be dealing with abdominal wall laxity as opposed to superficial adipose tissue.

It is somewhat unfortunate that you “don't believe” your plastic surgeon;  if this remains the case a second opinion by a well experienced/ethical  board certified plastic surgeon may be indicated.

I hope this helps.

This could be caused by excess fat or fluid accumulation (particularly since you mentioned that this happened very suddenly.) Your condition needs to be assessed by your surgeon, which seems like something you’ve already done. You may want to seek a second opinion if you don’t “believe him”.

There are many potential reasons for the concerns you have. It can be related to visceral fat, as your surgeon suggested. If you are early in your recovery it certainly can be from swelling, which can occur unevenly in the earlier phases of healing. It could also be a potential seroma. An examination is needed to provide further information.