Is it normal for lopsided swelling post tummy tuck? 3 weeks post-op.

Question

I am 17 days post op from a Tummy Tuck. At 10 days post op I had my right side drain out. The left side drain came out after at 14 days. On Day 15 I noticed that the right side is visibly more swollen than the left side. I have rested this weekend & continued high volume of fluids but it is still more swollen and sore. I should also note that when the right drain came out is switched to a Spanx instead of the hospital compression garment so it is more easily noticed. Is this normal?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question, switching to spandex so soon after a tummy tuck can increase your chances of a fluid collection, I usually tell my patients to wear the garment I give them for at least 4-6 weeks, continue to follow up with your PS best of luck.

Ellen A. Janetzke, MD · Answer

I recommend you contact your surgeon and follow up with them. While swelling is common and can last for up to 3 months post procedure, however sue to it being lopsided, you should follow up to ensure there is not an underlying issue.

Vishnu Rumalla, MD · Answer

Thanks for your inquiry, but without an exam it is hard to know if the swelling is normal or concerning.  Please see your surgeon to discuss.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. Unfortunately without a full series of photographs or an in-person examination it is difficult to know if you are experiencing soft tissue swelling or a discrete fluid collection.  The former would be normal for a tummy tuck procedure and improves spontaneously with time while the latter may require intervention by your surgeon.  I would contact your doctor and ask to be seen and evaluated for the best advice.

Timothy Treece, MD, FACS · Answer

Keep your compression garment on,  Minimize your core motion and call your surgeon to have fluid aspirated.  Uneven swelling does happen, if you feel as if you are filling up with fluid you should call your Surgeon to have the fluid removed.

Is it normal for lopsided swelling post tummy tuck? 3 weeks post-op.

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Is it normal for lopsided swelling post tummy tuck? 3 weeks post-op.

Answers (9)

Answer: Is it normal for lopsided swelling post tummy tuck? 3 weeks post-op.

Answer: Is it normal for lopsided swelling post tummy tuck? 3 weeks post-op.

Answer: Uneven Swelling Post op Tummy Tuck

Answer: Uneven Swelling Post op Tummy Tuck

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.