2 weeks post op tummy tuck-Lipo of flanks uneven... Is it swelling? (photo)

Question

One side is much higher than the other and I sm concerned I am 2 weeks post op and am swollen. I am wearing my binder 24/7 as well. Should I be concerned or will it even out once swelling subsides?

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

It is completely normal to experience swelling 2 weeks postop after liposuction, giving the appearance of asymmetry. Expect normal residual swelling for anywhere from 6 weeks to 6 months! Consult your surgeon and try to stay patient.

Mark A. Deuber, MD · Answer

In general, patients swell after surgery. This typically peaks 2-4 days after surgery and then gradually subsides over 6-8 weeks. It's not uncommon to undergo bilateral (or both sides of the body) procedures and have swelling resolve asymmetrically, or more quickly from one side of the body than the other. This could be because of handed-ness, because one side had more extensive surgery than the other, because a patient favors one side or sleeps on one side more, or just because. It could also be that there is an intrinsic anatomical asymmetry that was there and may always be there. Regardless, in the early postoperative period there is always swelling that will resolve and areas or issues of concern may work themselves out. You should always check with your surgeon if something doesn't seem right, or if there is a sudden change in appearance or very different levels of pain on one side vs the other.

Robert Drielsma, MBBS, BSc, FRACS · Answer

Its not uncommon at this stage of your recovery to experience swelling and asymmetry.  Its also too early to determine your final result at this stage.  Continue to follow your post operative guidelines and discuss any concerns with your plastic surgeon.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.
As always, it is best to be seen in person ( by your plastic surgeon) for precise diagnosis and treatment.Generally speaking, abdominal wall "swelling" after tummy tuck may be related to:
1. Swelling in the soft tissues.  This may take several months to resolve and may worsen with increased activity  or at the end of the day.   Patience  is required to allow for resolution of the swelling. The swelling occurs because of the interruption of venous and lymphatic channels that occurs during the tummy tuck operation.
2. Fluid accumulation in the space between the skin and the abdominal wall muscle.  this may consist of blood ( hematoma)  or serum (seroma).  This fluid accumulation can generally be diagnosed by physical examination ( occasionally ultrasound  may be helpful).  Treatment consists of aspiration;  several episodes of aspiration may be necessary. 
3. Separation of the abdominal wall muscle repair may lead to a swelling/bulge appearance. This may be diagnosed on physical examination  with your surgeon examining you in different bodily positions. One of the steps of a tummy tuck procedure involves reapproximation (plication)  of the rectus muscles.  These muscles have spread apart during pregnancy and/or weight gain. Bringing them together again in the midline helps to “tighten” the abdominal wall as well as to narrow the waistline.
4. Residual adipose tissue may be confused for swelling. Again this is most easily diagnosed by physical examination. Additional liposuction surgery maybe necessary to improve the results of surgery.
Generally, it takes many months for swelling to resolve after tummy tuck surgery and it may take up to one year  (or greater)  a complete skin redraping  to occur.Again, your plastic surgeon will always be your best resource. I hope this helps.

Amira Sanki, MBBS Hons, FRACS, PhD · Answer

From your post op photo, it appears that your left hip is fuller than your right and your right waistline sits higher than your left. I think it would be a good idea to have a look at your pre-operative photos. I am guessing you will find that your waist line was asymmetric before the surgery and that this has become more apparent now that your skin is flattened and tightened. the fullness at your hips can be a further reflection of asymmetry in your hip bones or that you have more oedema (swelling) at the left hip. Your plastic surgeon will be able to tell you the cause once they have the opportunity to examine you.

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

Swelling isn't usually evenly distributed, but to be sure that you don'e have a seroma or any other cause for the uneven appearance, check with your surgeon. He or she can examine you and give you recommendations.If you're interested in seeing an example of a well-healed tummy tuck, click on the link below.All the best.

Anh Lee, MD, FACS · Answer

You are still very early in the recovery process and need more time to let the swelling subside.  Continue with your PS's instructions and wear your compression garment.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

Swelling is very much still present at 2 weeks post surgery and it will be difficult to determine symmetry.  Wear your garment, follow your surgeons instructions, and re-evaluate at 2 months. Best wishes.Below is a fully healed tummy tuck.

M. Dean Vistnes, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

At only 2 weeks you certainly have swelling that would mask the result of your surgery. I tell my patients to be careful about salt intake as this can make swelling worse. It can easily take 3-6 months to see your final results after a big surgery like you had.  Be sure to keep any scheduled follow up appointments you have with your surgeons for his evaluation and advice. Good luck, Dean Vistnes.

Vincent D. Lepore, MD (retired) · Answer

At just two weeks post tummy tuck and liposuction, you still have a significant amount of swelling and this can make things look uneven.  I would not be concerned at this point.  Keep wearing the binder as this should help.  But don't despair,  this will probably improve significantly in the coming weeks.  Best wishes, Dr.Lepore.

2 weeks post op tummy tuck-Lipo of flanks uneven... Is it swelling? (photo)

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