6 months post op, swelling after removing compression garment. Will this resolve itself or will I need a revision? (photos)

Question

Hi, im a 38 y.o. female . I had a tummy tuck July 2022 . I have been doing everthing thats has been suggested. I been in compression around the clock since the day of surgery. I had over 7 post opt massages ,using arnica gel, drink arnica tea daily, light exercise , drinking water , and pineapple juice. I blow up like a can of biscuits as soon as i take the garment off. I still have a flap of fat and love handles. Will this resolve itself or a another procedure is needed

Brian K. Reedy, MD · Answer

Hi & thanks for your question!
 Swelling can last up to a year. Contact your surgeon with any questions or concerns you may have. Best wishes!

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

It is important to be patient and give your body time to heal fully. It can take up to a year for the final results of a procedure to become apparent, and it is not uncommon for some residual swelling to persist during this time.

If you are concerned about the amount of swelling you are experiencing, it is best to consult with your plastic surgeon.

If you are concerned about the amount of swelling you are experiencing, it is best to consult with your plastic surgeon.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

At 6 months post op swelling should be resolved and the garment no longer necessary.  An in person evaluation is always best, but it appears from your photos that the contours that concern you may be a result of visceral fat which is the internal fat around your organs.  This is addressed through weight loss.  Your surgeon should be able to direct your further after an exam.

Alexander Zuriarrain, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for posting your photos. As a surgeon who does a tremendous amount of abdominoplasty surgery and liposuction I would tell you that your result is standard. I do not see anything that is out of the ordinary. Many times there is excess roundness to the abdomen due to what is called visceral fat. I would recommend that you calculate your body mass index and it if it is anywhere above 22 you are carrying excess visceral fat which is causing bulging to your abdomen. There are also gastrointestinal issues that arise as we all age and it would be smart to visit your gastroenterologist. I would first encourage weight loss. You could add liposuction to the entire anterior abdomen, flanks and back to enhance your results further. That would be the best way to obtain further body contouring. Happy to help!
Alexander Zuriarrain, MD, FACS, FAACSDiplomate, American Board of SurgeryDiplomate, American Board of Plastic SurgeryDiplomate, American Board of Cosmetic SurgeryDiplomate, American Board of Facial Cosmetic Surgery

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear joyhicks,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what went wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment or ask for a second opinion. Only after a thorough examination, you can get proper recommendations and advice.
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

6 months post op, swelling after removing compression garment. Will this resolve itself or will I need a revision? (photos)

Answers (10)