1 week post Lipo and TT. When I woke up today it was moving like water waves around my incision. Is this normal?

Question

I also was super gassy yesterday, and somewhat bloated it seemed like but I was on the plane coming from the DR to home. Is this normal? I’m very worried. I did have a drain and took it out after 6 days in the Dominican Republic and now I’m back in the United States and will be starting my Lymph massages today. Will this help? Please tell me yes. My drain hole is closed so fluid cant come out of it I’m hoping the massages will help tighten my skin it looks like I have a sack around the incision.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It's not possible to rule out concerns from just your description.  An area that "moves like waves" could indicate a seroma which needs to be evaluated by your surgeon and potentially drained.  Swelling is normal and expected after surgery and can last for several weeks.  Flying that close after surgery does carry some risk.  It's best to reach out to your surgeon for instruction.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. Based on your description, it appears you have fluid collection. The fluid needs to be drained, if necessary, another drain may need to be placed.

Marc DuPéré, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.It is likely a seroma, despite the use of drains and despite using the rule of 25-30cc or less per day for 2 consecutive day.It may resolve.  If not, it should be drained otherwise, it can heal with excessive internal organizational tissues (ie scar) and may distort the final outcome.Aspirating (draining) the seroma is a simple procedure yet you may need to do it a few times, 1-2 per week.I would continue to wear your compression garment.Finding someone around you willing to help may or may not be easy as many surgeons will recommend you to see your original surgeon and this demonstrate one of the issues with medical tourism.  But it is likely you can find a local plastic surgeon willing to help you for a fee.Hope this helps.Kind regards,Dr. Marc DuPéré, aesthetic plastic surgeon

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your excellent question.  Based on your narestive I would be concerned about a possible fluid collection, termed a seroma, having developed.  This would need to be addressed by a surgeon to ensure resolution.  Hope this helps.

Jeanette Padgett, MD, FACS · Answer

It sounds like you have developed a seroma which is a collection of fluid underneath the skin flap.  You may need the drain replaced or it might be possible to drain the seroma  (syringe and needle) in the office.  If you cannot return to your original surgeon, you may be able to find someone locally to see you.  Best wishes.

1 week post Lipo and TT. When I woke up today it was moving like water waves around my incision. Is this normal?

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Answer: 1 week post Liposuction and Tummy Tuck. When I woke up today it was moving like water waves around my incision.

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1 week post Lipo and TT. When I woke up today it was moving like water waves around my incision. Is this normal?

Answers (9)

Answer: I woke up with a water wave...

Answer: I woke up with a water wave...

Answer: 1 week post Liposuction and Tummy Tuck. When I woke up today it was moving like water waves around my incision.

Answer: 1 week post Liposuction and Tummy Tuck. When I woke up today it was moving like water waves around my incision.

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