9 months post op - Swelling appeared after paddling, should I be concerned? (photos)

Hello Generous622389, thank you for your question regarding the swelling after your recent paddling activity, 9 months post-op from your mommy makeover. First and foremost, it's crucial to talk to your plastic surgeon to determine if the bulge is fat or fluid. It’s not uncommon for swelling to recur even several months post-op, especially after engaging in strenuous physical activities like paddling and lifting heavy objects. This swelling is typically due to fluid retention and inflammation in response to the physical exertion. The paddling and lifting could have strained your surgical area, leading to temporary swelling. This doesn’t necessarily mean that your results are ruined or that you will need another surgery. Give your body time to rest and monitor the swelling. Avoid any strenuous activities for a few days and see if the swelling reduces. Wearing your compression garment can help reduce swelling and provide support to the affected area. Applying a cold compress to the swollen area for 15-20 minutes at a time can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Stay well-hydrated and maintain a healthy diet, reducing salt intake can also help minimize swelling. If the swelling does not improve within a week or continues to worsen, it is important to contact your surgeon. If you experience significant pain, redness, or any signs of infection, reach out to your surgeon immediately. Based on your photos and description, it appears that the swelling is a response to physical activity and not necessarily an indication of needing another surgery. Many patients experience temporary setbacks in their recovery, but with proper care and monitoring, these issues often resolve without additional surgical intervention. Good luck, and I hope I’ve answered your question regarding the swelling after your paddling activity. It is always best to consult with your surgeon to get personalized advice based on your specific situation.

Sincerely,
J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FASMBS, FICS
Plastic Surgeon

Dear Generous622389,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

It isn’t typical to have new swelling after nine months postop. I would suggest you ask your surgeon to look at you since an in person physical exam would be necessary in your situation.

although youA photos are very limited and do not show your full abdomen, you may have developed some fluid. Please go back to your surgeon and be examined. If it is fluid, it can be easily drained.

This may be swelling related to your increased activity. If it hasn't improved after a few days of rest, return to your surgeon for an evaluation. She/He will rule out any potential complications.

I suggest you follow up with your plastic surgeon.
In both pictures, there is significant swelling in the left lower abdomen.
Limited pictures gives us limited ability to make an assessment.
We can’t tell you what’s going on based on the limited information.
Your plastic surgeon should be able to assess what’s going on.
If you don’t get the care you need then consider scheduling a few second opinion consultations.
The one thing you probably want to confirm is that you don’t have an ongoing fluid collection called a seroma.
This can usually be assessed on examination or definitively confirmed by getting an ultrasound.
At nine months, it would be pretty unusual for physical activity to cause swelling on one side of your abdomen.
Your provider should be able to help you with this.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom MD