My stomach is larger than before tummy tuck/lipo, what's going on? (Photos)

Question

I am almost 7 weeks post op (TT, Lipo, Reduction). I've been released from wearing compression garment but I am larger in my stomach than before surgery, even though I've lost about 10 lbs. I am hoping there is still a significant amount of swelling because I am way less hourglass shaped and am about 2 inches larger in my waist than before surgery. I wanted to start working out again but the doctor wont release me to sweat b/c i either have heat rash or Im allergic to sutures. Advice needed.

George Marosan, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photos. Without preop photos, it is difficult to compare. What I see on these postop photos, that you have a very long and high abdominoplasty incision. On the lateral view, your back looks straight with no feminine curves. I'm not sure where was the liposuction done. Most surgeons, do some lipo of your waist in the supine position during a tummy tuck. This is very inadequate to create shape. As a body sculpting surgeon, I do full liposuction of the whole back, waist and hips in the prone position, then liposuction of the abdomen and chest wall with my tummy tucks. Yes, this is not part of a "standard tummy tuck", but it is part of my standard body sculpting technique. At 2 months out you are still swollen and can expect some improvement over the next 4-6 months. At that point you can decide if further liposuction will create better shape for you. Discuss this with your surgeon, or seek a second opinion from a board certified plastic surgeon experienced in advanced body sculpting techniques. Good luck.

R. Scott Yarish, MD · Answer

That's a tough one...a pre-op photo would give the answer.  If you don't have a photo, get one from your surgeon.  From looking at the photo provided, your tummy tuck might be a good one.  But there is a lot of liposuction that could still be done to give you the result you want.  Remember, the tummy tuck only tightens the skin and muscle but requires liposuction to really give a reductions in size and nice contour.

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 6 months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you're in, swelling is very normal. If you have any concerns, I suggest you to follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

My stomach is larger than before tummy tuck/lipo, what's going on? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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My stomach is larger than before tummy tuck/lipo, what's going on? (Photos)

Answers (3)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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