Tummy Seems to Be Getting Bigger Instead of Smaller? (photo)

hi im 4 weeks post op from a full tummy tuck and flank lipo and is wanting to know why my stomach seems to be appearing bigger now then from my first week out.. shouldnt the swelling be going away by now?? my dr gave me the ok to get back on my elliptical and walking so will that make it even worse now?

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by Monim in Honolulu hi

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Swelling 4 weeks after surgery

Everything looks to be healing normally from the photo. it's probably just swelling. Are you wearing any type of compression garment? Check with your surgeon. Be careful of your salt intake as this can make swelling worse.

Post Op healing Tummy Tuck

It is too soon to judge the final result of the surgery as you are still healing and swelling will fluctuate during the healing process. Since you trusted and communicated well enough with the surgeon prior to surgery, you should trust how he/she guides you now. Continue to communicate your concerns to the surgeon and office, and they should be able to guide you properly.

Tummy Seems to Be Getting Bigger Instead of Smaller?

Thanks for trying to post photos, very hard to compare between these two posted. But if you feel you are increasing size see your chosen operative surgeon ASAP. Rule out a seroma than if you do not have any fluid collection discuss the healing times following your surgery in detail so you completely understand. I'm concerned that your result might not be to your liking so you need more in person discussions.

Unhappy Tummy

Hard to know what happened without a preop photo. I wouldn't say your tummy is bigger. You healed well and the scar appears to be well positioned. You do have a bit of fullness in the hip region which can be corrected with some additional lipo. Maybe discuss this with your surgeon and have a second liposuction procedure. You have the potential to have a great result you will be happy with.

Swelling after Tummy Tuck?

Thank you for the question and pictures. What you are experiencing is not unusual at all. Swelling will fluctuate during the first few months after tummy tuck surgery. Many patients will experience increased swelling after exercise. I would suggest continued follow-up with your plastic surgeon to rule out fluid accumulation (seroma); once this is ruled out patience will be indicated. It will take several months and even up to one year for swelling to resolve completely and for... more