Why is my lower abdomen not flat 4 months post op full tummy tuck with muscle repair? (photo)

Question

I had a full tummy tuck with muscle repair and liposuction of the flanks. Right after surgery I was flat. Around 8 weeks post op I really noticed my lower abdomen above the incision was bulging. My PS retired 8 weeks after my surgery so he cant help me. I will have to find a new plastic surgeon to take a look. Is this fat swelling maybe a seroma? I'm not happy at all with the way it looks and I paid 10000 to a doctor that is no longer in practice. What should I do?

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

I appreciate your concerns and i'm sorry this has brought you some anxiety. I suggest you wait for any revision until 1 year. At this point, most patients have not fully recovered in the lymphatics and so the fluid/swelling becomes trapped in this layer. On my patients, I suggest Arnica lymphatic massaging, bromalein, and tight compression. When a doctor retires, usually some other physician takes over the practice or charts and this person may be available for a second opinion!Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Your surgeon likely had another colleague take over his patients before retiring.  I encourage you to schedule a visit with her/him for an evaluation.  Swelling can occur with too much activity sometimes.  It could be seroma formation.  It also could be something different.  An exam should help provide potential solutions.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Hello. Great question. Thank you for your images, However, a personal examination is needed to determine if your bulge is swelling, fat or seroma.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear proudmommyoffour,
I understand your concern and it is quite normal to be concerned about the outcome following a tummy tuck surgery. However, you are still in the very early stages of the healing process.Your will need to be patient at this moment and follow what your surgeon has instructed you to do post operatively.At the early stage of the healing process, the tissues are still swollen. Once the swelling subsides  you will be able to see the final result of your surgery.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation is normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Why is my lower abdomen not flat 4 months post op full tummy tuck with muscle repair? (photo)

Answers (7)