In need second opinion for wearing compression garment (Photo)

Question

25 days p/o of TT. Drain removed 3 days ago and now developing fluid buildup. Aspiration done today and only 10cc's were removed surgeon could feel/see liquid but nothing was coming out after several attempts. I still see a wave in my tummy. Surgeon gave green light to wear compression garment after suffering from necrosis.. since I have fluid build up will wearing the garment affect healing process of the necrosis?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question about what to do with fluid build-up 25 days after a tummy tuck. First, I would treat one problem at a time. In my opinion, I still think there's fluid left over. Especially if you see a fluid wave, this will not go away. This needs intervention. If your surgeon cannot find it in the office, I would suggest you be sent to a radiologist to be found with an ultrasound and a drain placed. Once the drainage is minimal, then the drain can. Be removed. Now, while the drain is in and after the drain is removed. I would suggest you wear your compression garment. At this point, a compression garment will not hinder your healing or area of necrosis. Therefore, you must address your seroma first and continue wearing your compression garment to flatten the cavity the seroma has created. I hope this question helps you answer your question about what to do with fluid build-up 25 days after tummy tuck
If you have any more questions regarding the tummy tuck or abdominoplasty, please contact my office.  Since an abdominoplasty can be a difficult procedure, please seek an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon with significant experience performing tummy tucks.   Do your research.  Make sure your chosen plastic surgeon has performed at least 100 abdominoplasties.  Make sure they have the before and after pictures to prove it.  Carefully examine their before and after pictures and check their reviews on RealSelf.  Good luck! Sincerely, Dr. Katzen. (“Verified” Plastic Surgeon, President of the American Society of Bariatric Plastic Surgeons, Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Fellow of the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, American College of Surgery, International College of Surgery, and American Board of Metabolic and Bariatric Surgery,  and ​member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery, American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and RealSelf Hall of Fame.)

Justin K. Williams, MD · Answer

I am sorry that you are suffering from this unfortunate however common complication with seromas after abdominoplasty. I agree with her surgeon that a snug fitting compression garment, As long as it is not too tight to breathe, can help you in this case. It can help prevent additional swelling from forming in the tissue as well as can help keep the pocket where the fluid is accumulating closed.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding wearing a compression garment post op tummy tuck and for including a photo.

The compression garment is meant to be worn to help with swelling and stability after surgery.

Hope this helps!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

It is best to follow your surgeon's instructions and discuss any concerns or questions with her/him.  Do not be afraid to ask "why".  It is important that you are comfortable and confident in your recovery.  The compression garment is helpful to control swelling and seroma formation.  It is important that the garment fits properly.  You may want to bring it with you to your appointment for your surgeon to evaluate the fit.

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

The best advice I can give you is to follow your surgeons advice. That said, proper compression always helps control seroma. Just make sure it is not overly tight.

Best of luck,
Dr. Miguel Mota

In need second opinion for wearing compression garment (Photo)

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Answer: Post op instructions

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Answer: In need second opinion for wearing compression garment..

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In need second opinion for wearing compression garment (Photo)

Answers (10)

Answer: Post op instructions

Answer: Post op instructions

Answer: In need second opinion for wearing compression garment..

Answer: In need second opinion for wearing compression garment..

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

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