One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Question

I had a lipo suction and tummy tuck 3 weeks ago and one side looks bigger , is it because they left more fat or ? Thank you

Thomas A. Pane, MD · Answer

This early from surgery it may only be a slight difference in swelling.  Other causes are best evaluated in-person.  Depending on the thickness of your abdominal wall prior to surgery, it is possible that one side is in fact bigger and due only to the anatomy.  Your surgeon can give a better assessment by examining you.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and I am sorry that your results have not been what you anticipated.  It is difficult without an in-person examination to determine what may be taking place.  Most commonly this is residual swelling from surgery which will spontaneously resolve but it would be important to voice your concerns to your surgeon to ensure that other issues are not taking place - discrete fluid collection, muscle laxity, or residual adipose tissue.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

There are several possible explanations for the asymmetry.  First, your swelling may be uneven due to post operative activity or even positioning (that is, the tendency to lean towards or lay on one side more than the other).  Second, you may have developed a post operative seroma or fluid collection, accounting for the larger side.  Third, it is possible that fat removal was uneven.  I would suggest that you follow up with your operative surgeon for a careful examination and to discuss your concerns.  Best wishes for an easy recovery.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

At only 3 weeks, it's hard to comment on your results. It's normal to be swollen after lipo/TT so best to allow all of the swelling to resolve before you evaluate your results. And, both sides do not necessarily heal at the same rate! Continue wearing your garment and following up with your PS. Good luck!

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

Asymmetric healing is very common with all surgery. It could be that you use that side more. Is it the same side as your "handedness" -- i.e. right side if you are right handed? Nothing to worry about unless it doesn't improve with time. Then, see your surgeon.My best,
Dr. Sheila Nazarian
@drsheilanazarian on Instagram

One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Answers (8)

Answer: One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Answer: One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Answer: Asymmetric healing

Answer: Asymmetric healing

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Answers (8)

Answer: One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Answer: One side of my tummy tuck is more swollen. Is it because they left more fat?

Answer: Asymmetric healing

Answer: Asymmetric healing

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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.