What can I do to make the small amount of fluid built up absorb into my body faster after tummy tuck?

Question

I think I am forming a small seroma. I see my doctor on Friday however, I want to try to reduce the fluid asap. Will wearing a binder and laying in bed as much as possible make my body absorb the fluid faster?

Paul Vitenas, Jr., MD · Answer

Thank
you very much for your question.  If in
fact you feel like you are forming a seroma, you should contact your operating
plastic surgeon as soon as possible, and be seen in-person for an examination.  However, limiting the amount of sodium intake
in your diet will surely help your situation, as will wearing a compression garment
24 hours a day.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

If think you are forming a seroma, you should contact your surgeon to see them sooner. Early drainage of your seroma can help. In my experience, wearing compression garments and minimizing your physical activity can also help with fluid build-up. You want to also watch your fluid intake. #tummytuck #recovery #seroma #healingaftertummytuck

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

Wearing a binder and staying in bed will most certainly help.  However, you must make sure that the wounds are healed well enough for compression.

Terrence Murphy, MD · Answer

If you are developing a seroma compression and avoiding strenuous activity can help.  Just lying in bed however needs to be avoided to prevent other issues.  Follow your surgeon's instructions and follow closely with him or her.  Dr. Millard's dietary advice also helps.

John A. Millard, MD, FACS · Answer

The best advise I an give you is to do three things.  First, minimize your sodium intake.  Second, make sure that you are getting adequate protein in your diet.  Thirdly, be patient, as your body has a normal response to retain extra fluid for up to two weeks or more, because the stress of surgery increases hormone levels that make you retain fluid.  These hormone levels take a couple of weeks to return to normal no matter what you do!

What can I do to make the small amount of fluid built up absorb into my body faster after tummy tuck?

Answers (5)

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