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.

Mark T. Boschert, MD · Answer

Yes, it is likely to be just swelling but in case it is a fluid collection I would suggest seeing your surgeon to be sure it isn't something that the surgeon can treat sooner than later. Best of luck!

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It could be normal or it could be a fluid collection. In order to determine if it is a fluid collection you would have to be seen in person.

David A. Lickstein, MD · Answer

I think you should allow your surgeon to examine the area and ensure that there is no fluid accumulating on that side.  It can be aspirated if it is present.

Laura A. Sudarsky, MD (retired) · Answer

If you have swelling on one side of your belly after tummy tuck and drain removal you should see your plastic surgeon. Most likely this is a fluid collection known as a seroma, which might need to be drained.

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

Answers (9)

More Tummy Tuck Questions

My 4 umbilical hernia scar is itchy and sore. Is that normal? (Photo)

Can anything be done to smooth out my skin after a tummy tuck didn't work? (Photo)

Blood blister? Necrosis? Bruise (Photo)

Will my face automatically look thinner and gaunt if I get plastic surgery on other parts of my body (TT or liposuction)?

During a tummy tuck what type of stitches are appropriate to be used in muscle repair? Dissolvable or permanent?

Do any doctors offer financing in house instead of care credit?

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS