Stomach dented after seroma - will it ever look normal? 2 months post-op. (Photos)

Question

I had INCREDIBLE results the first few weeks.. I had full tt 8 weeks ago- 4 weeks in i got a seroma (I had drains for 3 weeks). We drained a lot then put a drainage tube back in- but the seroma returned so my doctor made an open slit in my scar line and inserted a rubber “balloon” to keep it free draining. My stomach then became dented and swollen and now looks deformed. He says it will heal up and if not he can do a simple procedure to correct it. Can this be fixed?

Trefor Nodwell, MD · Answer

Good afternoon,Thanks for the pictures and thorough history. Only time will tell what the final result will be. What’s important in your case is that the seroma was recognized and treated appropriately in its early stages. That tends to keep other complications to a minimum.Currently it is too early to know how much of the contour irregularities are from typical swelling and minor reoperation  and how much is more permanent.Some time around 6 months post op, you and your surgeon should have a very good idea where this is headed.Best of luck,Dr Nodwell

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Sorry you are having this problem. Seromas like yours can occur and it sounds like yours was treated appropriately. Now you must give your body a chance to heal and after 3 to 6 months, evaluation can be made to see if revisions are necessary. As swelling resolves, your issue may also greatly improve. Stay in contact with your plastic surgeon. Good luck!

Carrie Houssock, MD · Answer

In general the body will require months to settle.  I always tell my patients that we need to wait a minimum of 3 months to really see where the tissues end up.  Since you had an extended healing period with the post operative seroma, this time period may well be even longer for you.  At this point, patience is your friend.  In addition, I also tell every tummy tuck patient that there is a chance you may need a second stage liposuction procedure following, as fine contouring abnormalities, especially in the upper abdomen cannot be completely addressed on the first procedure.  Hope this helps!

Stomach dented after seroma - will it ever look normal? 2 months post-op. (Photos)

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Stomach dented after seroma - will it ever look normal? 2 months post-op. (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.