5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Question

My right flank( when looking at photo) appears much larger than my left. My doctor assured me it’s swelling but this is the only area of “swelling” that doesn’t seem to go up and down or respond to ibuprofen. I feel as though I have two different shapes on each side. Could I have a Seroma and not show signs? I love my results besides this right flank. I have a feeling I had poor lipo done and might need a revision.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You are very early in the healing process and still have swelling, which is expected.  It can take up to 9 months before you will see the final results from surgery.  Until then I encourage you to try to be patient and follow the advice of your surgeon.  If a seroma is present your surgeon will address it.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. Thank you for your pictures. Congratulations on your tummy tuck. However, you are still early in your recovery process. There is still swelling present. I will suggest waiting a few weeks to examine your final results. Be patient. Continue going to your follow up appointments. If concerns persist, please visit a board certified plastic surgeon for a detailed examination.

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You would need an in person exam to determine if you have a seroma or not. It is not unusual for the body to heal at different rates in different areas. Be sure to follow all post operative instructions and share your concerns with  your surgeon. Good luck.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation, discomfort and irregularities are normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Mark Deutsch, MD, FACS · Answer

I see the area on your pictures that you are concerned about. A physical exam would be beneficial to help determine if this is a seroma vs. postop swelling vs. residual fatty tissue. I would advise that you check in with your plastic surgeon who can examine you and help with management. It is still early in the postop period so continued massage and compression garments is always a good recommendation.

5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: 5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Answer: 5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Answer: Postop swelling

Answer: Postop swelling

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5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Answers (5)

Answer: 5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Answer: 5 weeks post abdominoplasty and concerned about uneven flanks. Could I have a seroma and not show signs? (photos)

Answer: Postop swelling

Answer: Postop swelling

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.