Swelling or did lipo not work? 7 weeks post op mommy makeover mini tt, lipo of abdomen, hips, flanks, inner/outer thighs

Question

Exactly 7 weeks post op today, my jeans are really tight & can't even wear some. I feel like my saddle bags & my hips are still too big. Is it normal to still be swollen or should I be discussing maybe a touch up on these areas?

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

Healing after the #tummytuck will require time. Some patients are out of bed and walking the night of surgery and every hour while awake. I allow my patients to return to work at one to two weeks with 14 days preferred.  However, no lifting or straining.  At three weeks, increased level of activity and full with no restrictions, at 6 weeks. #MummyTummy is a term given to modified tummy tucks which can use liposuction and skin tightening with radiofrequency such Vanquish, Vela3, thermage, thermiRF and others.  The actual fat contouring can be done non-surgically as well with #UltraShape or Cool-Sculpting.As I advise my patients, if your work keeps you sedentary, you may return whenever you feel up to it. If your work is strenuous, wait until your work activity does not cause any superficial pain. Some employers will modify a person’s job duties so they can back sooner, but without physical activity. Our office can provide our patients with a note stating they are not to engage in strenuous activity for a specified period of time. The note will not disclose what procedure they have underwent. Therefore, you may have to request a similar note from your surgeon if you are not independently employed. I recommend avoiding heavy lifting and strenuous #activity for six weeks following your surgery. With that said, it may help you plan your return to work accordingly.

As for heavy lifting and other #strenuous #activities, it should be avoided for until you have clearance from your surgeon. You may, however, do normal activities at any time if they cause no pain or #discomfort. Let your body tell you what you can or cannot do. Aerobic exercise will raise your blood pressure, which could cause late bleeding and harm your result. Once you begin exercising again, start gently and let your body tell you what it can tolerate. Don’t rush!!  If you have concerns about your healing, or pain that you question to be unusual, it is import

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

You are still healing. It can take up to 6 months for the swelling to go down. For now, be patient. And be aware of your salt intake as that can affect your swelling. Best, Dr. Nazarian

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

There can be significant swelling at seven weeks so it's too early to become terribly concerned. Best to show the situation to your own surgeon for reassurance.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

If you are unhappy I suggest speaking to your physician or getting a second opinion.  My patients see their results immediately.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Nagi T. Ayoub, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question.  Without before ore and after pictures it is hard to get an idea of how much surgery was done.  The more surgery is done the longer the recovery.  Be patient and continue with the compression if you are experiencing persistent swelling.  Make sure you keep your f/u with your surgeon and express your concern.  You may have a seroma that your surgeon may have to address.Best regardsNagi T Ayoub MD, FACS

Swelling or did lipo not work? 7 weeks post op mommy makeover mini tt, lipo of abdomen, hips, flanks, inner/outer thighs

Answers (9)

Answer: Post Liposuction Irregularities, Swelling -- Try Massage, Velashape or Venus Legacy With Your Compression

Answer: Post Liposuction Irregularities, Swelling -- Try Massage, Velashape or Venus Legacy With Your Compression

Answer: Swelling after liposuction

Answer: Swelling after liposuction

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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

Swelling or did lipo not work? 7 weeks post op mommy makeover mini tt, lipo of abdomen, hips, flanks, inner/outer thighs

Answers (9)

Answer: Post Liposuction Irregularities, Swelling -- Try Massage, Velashape or Venus Legacy With Your Compression

Answer: Post Liposuction Irregularities, Swelling -- Try Massage, Velashape or Venus Legacy With Your Compression

Answer: Swelling after liposuction

Answer: Swelling after liposuction

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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