Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

Question

I had a full TT with lipo 3.5 weeks ago. 5 days post-op I weighed 15 lbs LESS than my pre-op weight. In the past 2 weeks my weight has crept up, now I'm weighing 7 lbs MORE. I still have one drain in which is draining about 120 cc's of dark red fluid daily. I'm still VERY tight especially in my lower abdomen and back below my waist. I'm a gastric sleeve patient and have lost over 120 lbs. Is this weight gain actual fat? Could this still water retention? I'm kinda discouraged. :(

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Congratulations on having undergone the tummy tuck surgery. Yes, it is quite normal for patients to gain weight after surgical procedures. Patients tend to retain fluid;   it may take several weeks for this  fluid to “mobilize” and for patients to return to their preoperative weight.  For more precise advice,  continue to follow-up with your plastic surgeon.  Keep in mind, that it is also quite common for patients to go through significant emotional "ups and downs" during their postoperative course.Best wishes.

R. Brannon Claytor, MD, FACS · Answer

Following plastic surgery and especially surgery around the soft tissues of the abdomen it is not uncommon for tissue to retain fluid. This may be even more likely following combined liposuction. Proper diet following surgery is important as well. Close follow up with you plastic surgeon at this time is a good idea.Post operative results continue to improve for months and are optimal at 3 to 6 months

Jose M. Soler-Baillo, MD, MS · Answer

Thanks for your question. This is more likely to be fluid, it is unusual to gain this amount of weight so quickly. An in-person examination can help clarify the problem.All the best,Dr. ResultsMiami, FL

Peter J. Capizzi, MD · Answer

This is due to healing, swelling, and ultimately water.  Humans are 60% water by weight.  Swelling after trauma or surgery will cause our body to store more water.  Additionally, expect this not to resolve until a period of 6-12 weeks.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Sounds like retention but ONLY in person examination plus labs can determine this. Please see your chosen surgeon Dr Broudo ASAP.

Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

Answers (6)

Answer: Post surgical weight gain is very common

Answer: Post surgical weight gain is very common

Answer: Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

Answer: Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

Answers (6)

Answer: Post surgical weight gain is very common

Answer: Post surgical weight gain is very common

Answer: Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

Answer: Seven pound weight gain 3 weeks post-op Tummy Tuck with Lipo

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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.