18 days post op. 5L removed. Hips, flanks, abdomen. Am I still swollen? (photos)

Question

Can I expect the flabbyness to go away?? Or is this pretty much what it will look like? I don't feel swollen and no pain at all. Still wearing my garment and staying away from salty foods.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Unfortunately to me you were more of a candidate for liposuction with a tummy tuck.  When you have lose skin to begin with, liposuction alone does very little.  Best, Dr. Emer.

N. Bill Aydin, MD · Answer

At 18 days you are still very swollen. The first few weeks after surgery you are the most swollen. At about 3 months most of the swelling has gone down. However the final results will not be seen for up to 9 months. Just give your body time to heal and enjoy the results.

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your recent surgery!18 days is very early after surgery! You are still swollen. Swelling can last for several months, and final results will not be seen for 6-9 months. The patient and stay in close contact with your surgeon.

Kimberly Finder, MD · Answer

Swelling is a generally at its peak in the first 2 weeks, then begins to slowly dissipate over months to a final result. There is a a lot of healing still to occur at the 18 day point. The skin hasn't had enough time to contract yet. Be patient and follow your doctor's recommendations.

18 days post op. 5L removed. Hips, flanks, abdomen. Am I still swollen? (photos)

Answers (4)