Is 20 pounds of fluid retention after Tummy tuck/lipo normal?

Question

I am 10 days post of from a tummy tuck and lipo to my hips, thighs, and saddle bags. I have gained/retained 20 pounds of fluid and am on water pills twice a day. Can barely walk due to swelling. is this normal?

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry to hear about your swelling.  Though fluid retention is commonly seen after a tummy tuck and liposuction, 20 pounds is on the heavier side.  Most patients after surgery will see a temporary increase in weight , and your body will hold on to this extra water until your healing has progressed. As your activity level increases, your swelling may as well. Though the swelling will not effect your long term results, best to continue to wear your compression garment in order to limit your discomfort and continue close follow up with your surgeon to ensure no issues arise. Hope this helps.

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Post op weight gain from swelling/fluid retention is normal. Although 20lbs does seem a bit extreme. I would definitely suggest that you speak with your surgeon as he or she knows your case best -- Dr. Nazarian

Oliver Pope Simmons, MD, FACS · Answer

20 pounds (10 liters ) is a lot. It is common to retain a few pounds and a few liters of fluid for weeks or sometimes months.  Fluid that is intracellular (inside the tissue ) is usually mobilized within a week or two except in odd cases such as infection or deep vein clot.   I would definetely check with your plastic surgery and if you have any complicated medical history your primary care physician can often help. On a side note, sweeping is usually worse in patients with protein deficiency.  Sometimes I see additional swelling in patients who undergo surgery after extreme dieting or weight loss, especially they aren't given enough time (3-6 months ) after weight loss to restablish normal homeostasis of their liver functions after weight loss.  A serum albumin may be helpful.

Sugene Kim, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, Driven2005Sorry to hear that you have gained 20 lbs after tummy tuck.Most patients retain fluid after surgery and can gain weight peri-operatively.Depending on each patient's body/physiology, some may retain fluid for couple weeks.Please continue ambulating and hydrate yourself.  Follow your plastic surgeon's post-op instruction.Best regards.

Thomas Trey Sands, MD · Answer

Weight gain after this procedure is to be expected. The amount of weight gain varies depending on the patient and the procedure performed. 20 lbs does seem to be on the high side of weight gain but really needs to be evaluated by you plastic surgeon. He may want you to be evaluated by your pcp.

Victor Ferrari, MD, FACS · Answer

Though some post-op swelling after lipo/tummy tuck can cause weight gain, 20 extra pounds is not normal.  If your PS is managing this, you may want to consider seeing your primary doctor for a second opinion.

Is 20 pounds of fluid retention after Tummy tuck/lipo normal?

Answers (6)

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