Is it normal to have significantly more swelling on one side than the other after a tummy tuck? (Photo)

Question

I had a tummy tuck and lipo of mid and upper back on June 24th. The drain on my left did well however the drain on my right produced only 5 to 10 cc per day. When the drains were being removed the drain on my right was pointing upward instead of downward. I have had excruciating pain on my right side and right back since surgery with significantly more swelling that appears to be between the size of a golf ball and tennis ball. Could this be an infection or is this normal?

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question and photo.  There can certainly be a degree of asymmetry during the initial healing following a tummy tuck.  To prevent this, I utilize a surgical compression garment and strategically placed foam pads underneath the garment to aid in perfecting contour and ensuring symmetry during the healing process.However, my main concern is the possibility of a fluid collection (seroma or hematoma) being present that could compromise your recovery - please see your board-certified plastic surgeon for a thorough examination.The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.  If you are not able to be evaluated by your surgeon, please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative body surgery.Best of luck!Dr. Schwartz

Sheila S. Nazarian, MD · Answer

It is common to have different amounts of swelling after surgery.  Make sure to raise your concerns with your surgeon to make sure that you do not have a fluid collection, however.Sheila Nazarian

Beverly Hills

Jeffrey A. Sweat, MD · Answer

You should go in to be examined by your plastic surgeon.  It is possible that the drain could have been kinked and was not properly draining or even if it was properly draining, you could have developed a seroma (collection of the fluid that was coming out the drain) under the skin on your right side.  Your plastic surgeon will want to know about this and may even want to drain the seroma when you are seen.  Best of luck with your recovery!

Michael Zarrabi, MD · Answer

It's not unusual to have asymmetry between the right and left side of a tummy after a tummy tuck or LIposuction. Drains often produce different amounts of fluid.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

If you are having significant pain on one side and it is more swollen, you could have a fluid collection or hematoma. Please see your plastic surgeon as soon as you can.  An ultrasound could help determine if there is a significant fluid collection, but sometimes physical exam is all one needs. Best wishes.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

Swelling after a tummy tuck is normal and can be uneven.  Please see your plastic surgeon to determine if there is a fluid collection (serum or hematoma) that would require drainage or if it is just normal swelling.Good Luck!

Heather J. Furnas, MD · Answer

Check with your plastic surgeon to make sure you don't have a fluid a collection and/or an infection. If you have a fluid collection, it's possible your surgeon will drain the fluid. To find out more about tummy tucks, click on the link below.All the best.

Is it normal to have significantly more swelling on one side than the other after a tummy tuck? (Photo)

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