15 months post op and still “swelling" - what can I do? (photos)

Question

To start off, six days after my surgery I felt like I had an abnormal amount of swelling and brought it to my PS and she vehemently and repeatedly assured me that it was normal. However, here I sit, 15 months later with this bulge that I feel is not “normal”. She sent me for CT which she reviewed and said it was fine and no issues noted, however she has basically dropped me since and never held my 1 year post op appt. or any other follow ups.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is not common to have swelling at 15 months post op.  I'm sorry that your surgeon is no longer responding to you.  I encourage you to visit with another board certified plastic surgeon near you to determine what may be the underlying cause.

Sean T. Lille, MD · Answer

Dear Girl_in_Black, I'm always very sorry to hear when a surgeon dismisses a patient that feels they are having issues. It is not expected to be swollen at 15 months post-op. Please seek a second opinion with another reputable surgeon.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question.  After 15 months this is unlikely to be swelling and an underlying cause needs to be determined through an in-person examination of your tissues.  Most likely this is failure of your muscle repair, or continued laxity that will require a surgical revision.  Seek out board certified plastic surgeons to get the best advice.

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Thanks for your question! I might suggest getting a second opinion. I suppose there's always a possibility that your diastasis needs to be looked at and perhaps repaired. Good luck!

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Girl_in_Black,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

15 months post op and still “swelling" - what can I do? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling after surgery

Answer: Swelling after surgery

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.

15 months post op and still “swelling" - what can I do? (photos)

Answers (9)

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling

Answer: Swelling after surgery

Answer: Swelling after surgery

Browse related questions

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.