Will this tumescent fluid that has been left behind after 9 days dissolve or reabsorb on its own?

Question

i have traveled to philadelphia for abdominal liposuction 9 days ago, the incisions were left open and 2 drain tubes were inserted and then removed 2 days later (no stitches at all) & my incisions are closed. during my procedure the surgeon had to add more fluid to the left side due to feeling pain during the suctioning, which is exactly where the fluid is. it feels like i am tapping on a small water balloon can the body get rid of this on its own?... "i am scared!!!!"

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

The tumescent fluid is resorbed and excreted in your urine.  There is some swelling at this point.  It will take one month to see any results.  The final results are apparent at 6 months. What you are describing however is a fluid collection, which will not resolve without being drained. Make an appointment to see the surgeon.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

Seromas are a collection of fluid, usually plasma, lymph and liquefied fat cells that can accumulate after any procedure.  They need to be drained, to allow the skin to "stick" back down.  This is a simple office visit where a small needle is placed through a numb skin area to aspirate the fluid.  A compression dressing/garment is then placed to help prevent a repeat seroma.  Most seromas will drain for weeks, be patient and allow your surgeon to drain these as often as needed.  Any person can drain a seroma, even a nurse.Good Luck!

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Your body will slowly heal and remove the excess fluid from swelling and the tumescent fluid. Drink fluids, walk, and gently massage the treated area. Please follow your surgeon's post operative instructions.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is likely that it is swelling rather than fluid. But if concerned, it is always best to discuss with your surgeon.

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

Nine days after surgery, the tumescent fluid is all absorbed by your body.  You are either feeling pure swelling, which is fluid mixed into your own tissues like a sponge hold water.  This does not require drainage and will go away on its own.  The second possibility is what is called a seroma (Your own fluid collection at the surgery area as a result of the normal inflammation of healing that follows liposuction).  This should be drained, if present, as it will potentially cause a long term deformity in your results.  It's drained either by needle and syringe or by placing a small drain and leaving it for several days.

Will this tumescent fluid that has been left behind after 9 days dissolve or reabsorb on its own?

Answers (6)

Answer: Liposuction and swelling

Answer: Liposuction and swelling

Answer: Tumescent Fluid After Nine Days?

Answer: Tumescent Fluid After Nine Days?

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Everything you need to know about Tumescent Liposuction

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Will this tumescent fluid that has been left behind after 9 days dissolve or reabsorb on its own?

Answers (6)

Answer: Liposuction and swelling

Answer: Liposuction and swelling

Answer: Tumescent Fluid After Nine Days?

Answer: Tumescent Fluid After Nine Days?

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Tumescent Liposuction

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