What causes the large basketball look in upper belly after abdominoplasty 3 years post op? Also issues after brachioplasty?

Question

I lost 168 lbs with diet and exercise. 3 years ago I had abdominoplasty and it looked great for 9 months. After removing the compression garment my upper stomach started ballooning out. However, the lower stomach is great but under the breast it looks like a basketball. What is causing it? I gained 19 lbs after second year but none in this year yet gone up 2 clothes size due to stomach protruding worse. Next, had brachioplasty 2 yrs ago with continue pain, swelling and general arm weakness daily

Juan Carlos Fuentes, MD · Answer

When a tummy tuck is done, the excess of skin is removed, usually some liposuction is done on the flanks, and also a muscle repair is done. By gaining weight, the body shape changes, as there is an increase in the volume of the fat deposits not just under the skin but also in the inside of the abdominal cavity, and that can increase the size of the abdomen, plus more fat in the upper abdominal area, can be the reason for having an upper belly that looks bigger than before.

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Thank you for the questions.  Upper abdominal swelling a few years after a tummy tuck may be due to a number of factors including:-excess fat-loosening abdominal muscles-pseudobursa -swellingWith the weight gain you've duscussed it may make sense that some of the bulging that you have described is excess fat.  An in person exam would allow the plastic surgeon to determine the cause and solution to your issue.All the best,Dr Remus Repta

Anh Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

You stated you gained 19 lbs from the operation which is a lot.  Most of the fat could have accumulated on the intraabdominal fat meaning the fat that lines the organs.  If this is the case then you need to lose the weight.  As for the brachioplasty, you need to go back to your PS to be evaluated.  Problems could be due to nerves or lymph nodes that were injured.

What causes the large basketball look in upper belly after abdominoplasty 3 years post op? Also issues after brachioplasty?

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What causes the large basketball look in upper belly after abdominoplasty 3 years post op? Also issues after brachioplasty?

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.