I am now at two and a half months post smart lipo on my lower and upper abdomen . First thing in the morning the abdomen contour looks fairly even, progress is definitely noticeable, but later on in the day several areas harden quote a bit and the abdomen develops more noticeable ripples/ridges . However, after a decent size meal ( lunch or dinner ) the entire abdomen takes on a horrible shape ; very asymmetrical distentions, pronounced ripples and ridges, half way up it almost looks like there is a shelf protruding on the sides and front, there are lumps, more hardened areas, etc. I'm not sure what causes this in light of the fact that upon waking up in the morning the appearance is very even and smooth, so I am both puzzled and worried as to why there is such a drastic change after eating and why isn't the added extension of the stomach evenly distributed ? Will this gradually subside and go away with the coming months Giving way to that even distribution of weight or post meal extension, or is it something I can expect to be a permanent effect of the surgery ?!
Answers (2)
From board-certified doctors and trusted medical professionals
When pads or tape are left on the skin for too long, removal can be difficult and aggressive peeling can damage the skin. The best way to get them off is to soak them in water, wait a few minutes and then carefully peel them off.
The skin changes you describe can be caused by fluid trapped in the area. It is a good idea to go for professional massages frequently to help eliminate this fluid to avoid any long term skin changes.
The reasons surgeons tell patients it takes up to six months to see the final results following SmartLipo include: 1) the improvements seen where the fat that is (permanently) removed is temporarily masked by swelling of the skin and soft tissues and 2) any skin contraction or tightening...
