4 Days Post Op from Smart Lipo and when I Eat a Meal Swelling Seems to Get Worse.. Any Ideas?

Question

I had my upper and lower abdomen and waist done 4 days ago. I ate my first real meal today and am experiencing serious swelling, possibly bloating I cant really tell. Also, is it okay that one incision site is still bleeding minimally?

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

Fluctuations in swelling are very common in the early recovery period.  Make sure you are wearing your compression garment, eating healthy, and drinking plently of water.  Add a protein drink to your daily diet for the next week or so.  Increased protein will help absorb the swelling and move your recovery along faster.  Drainage is standard but varies from individual to individual.  It will stop when it's time.  Make sure you maintain a good posture and start massaging the treated areas now.  See your surgeon frequently so he or she can coach you through the recovery process.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Eating always distends a belly to some extent and bloating is not uncommon either.  In addition, at 4 days swelling will come and go due to activity and diet.  The swelling should continue to improve over about 3 month period.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

Daryl K. Hoffman, MD · Answer

Swelling four days after Smartlipo can have many causes.  Too salty a meal can cause fluid retention.  Pain medication can cause bloating and constipation.  Eating too much may make your abdomen feel too large as well.  It is probably normal but check with your doctor to make sure there are not any signs of infection.

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

This may just be bloating, but it is best to make a follow up appointment with your surgeon to have any questions answered properly.

David A. Bray, Sr., MD · Answer

I is not uncommon for patients to swell in the early post lipo period.  You need to eat healthy and in moderation. Perhaps you are getting too much salt in your diet. Keep compression garment on

4 Days Post Op from Smart Lipo and when I Eat a Meal Swelling Seems to Get Worse.. Any Ideas?

Answers (7)

Answer: Smartlipo recovery

Answer: Smartlipo recovery

Answer: Eating

Answer: Eating

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Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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4 Days Post Op from Smart Lipo and when I Eat a Meal Swelling Seems to Get Worse.. Any Ideas?

Answers (7)

Answer: Smartlipo recovery

Answer: Smartlipo recovery

Answer: Eating

Answer: Eating

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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