Is this swelling 6 months post op? (Photo)

Question

I initially loved my results, I was completly flat. The last few months my look/shape has changed a lot. Nothing has been different with my diet or lifestyle. I had a lymphatic massage last week, she did say there was fluid around my rib cage. I want to know if my look will return to how I looked after surgery in the beginning.

Randal Haworth, MD, FACS · Answer

Changes in the appearance of your body after liposuction can occur as part of the normal healing process. It's not uncommon to experience some fluctuations in the months following the procedure due to factors like swelling, fluid retention, and the redistribution of remaining fat cells.

A lymphatic massage can help with fluid drainage and may improve the overall appearance, but it may take time for your body to fully settle into its post-surgery state. It's essential to maintain regular communication with your plastic surgeon to discuss your concerns and any noticeable changes in your results.

I hope this helps,
best of luck !

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for sharing your history and pictures. It's common for swelling to persist for up to 12-18 months after liposuction. To manage:
Lymphatic Massage: This can aid in reducing swelling.
Compression Garment: Wear a Stage 2 garment to support healing and reduce swelling.
Activity Levels: Stay active, but don't overdo it; excessive activity can increase swelling.
Be patient and continue post-op care. If concerns persist, consult with your surgeon.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your lymphatic massage may be too aggressive. Also, I would suggest being checked for food allergies, and checking your weight to see if you have gained any weight.

Matt Novak, MD · Answer

An increase in swelling 6 months postoperatively is unusual. More common issues that may affect the ongoing result of your tummy tuck include weight gain or a loosening of the sutures used to tighten the rectus (six-pack) muscles. The would particularly be the case if absorbable sutures were used to tighten your muscles. Regardless of what is going on in your particular case, you should follow up with your surgeon to discuss your concerns. If that is not an option, you should schedule with a qualified plastic surgeon to assess your situation and discuss the options for improving your abdominal contour.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At six months post op the majority of the swelling should have subsided.  The look that concerns you could be from visceral fat, which is internal fat that improves with weight loss.  I encourage you to visit with your surgeon to discuss your concerns.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

The most common reason patients have abdominal bulging after a tummy tuck is due to excess visceral fat.
Individuals who have access, visceral fat should be told that their abdomen may not remain flat after a full tummy tuck, and any potential weight gain will make the condition worse.
The only way to reduce excess visceral fat is with weight loss, and this is your best option for improving your outcome.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

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