Swelling Flanks After Tummy Tuck and Liposuction

Thanks for your question -
It is common to have abdominal swelling after abdominoplasty.
When thinking about abdominal contour here are things to consider:
Skin envelope
Abdominal fat (subcutaneous and intrabdominal)
Muscles tightness
Intrinsic Swelling
Fluid collections
Skin Envelope -
People complaining of "abdominal bulge" after tummy tuck typically do not have issues with too much skin - that points to issues underneath the skin.
Abdominal fat -
This can be an issue in people who may be a little bit over their ideal body weight at the time of abdominoplasty. Ways to fix this include the tried and true diet and exercise or liposuction. Be sure to allow enough time between tummy tuck and liposuction to minimize complications.
Muscle tightness -
Muscles plication (or tightening) is usually a part of abdominoplasty. Either failure of the sutures or some laxity can cause a bulge. If the change in your contour was sudden or if you felt a pop - think about the plication having ruptured.
Swelling -
This can be the most common cause of contour issues post-abdominoplasty. Patients typically have swelling for two reasons. First surgery causes trauma and the body's response to trauma is to bring additional fluid into the area that has been traumatized. In addition, abdominoplasty involves dividing lymphatic channels (very very small conduits that normally pull fluid out of tissue) - until these channels grow back the area will not be able to remove excess fluid.
It is usually the most dependent (lowest) part of the surgery that stays swollen the longest.
The majority of swelling usually resolves after the first 4-6 weeks but there may be residual swelling for up to 6 months.
Fluid collections -
Seromas (serous fluid collections) or hematomas (collections of old blood) can cause distortions of contour. Normally this will improve on its own but may require drainage.
I hope this helps.

Thank you for your question regarding the swelling in your flanks after undergoing a full tummy tuck with muscle repair and liposuction. It's understandable to be concerned, but I want to assure you that what you are experiencing is completely normal at this stage of your recovery.

Swelling is a typical response of the body to surgery, especially for procedures as extensive as a tummy tuck and liposuction. Given that it has only been 9 days since your surgery, swelling is expected. The presence of drains is also a good indication that your surgeon is managing the post-operative fluids effectively.

The swelling will gradually subside as your body heals. In the meantime, it's essential to be patient and follow your surgeon's post-operative care instructions closely. Make sure to keep wearing your compression garment as advised, as this helps reduce swelling and supports the healing tissues. Also, maintain a balanced diet, stay hydrated, and avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate the swelling.

If the swelling does not begin to decrease over the coming weeks, or if you notice any signs of infection or other complications, be sure to contact your surgeon. Regular follow-up appointments are crucial for monitoring your recovery and ensuring everything is progressing as expected.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Bruising and swelling are normal in the suctioned areas and usually increase slightly after the removal of any tape or foam. The bruising will decrease over 3-4 weeks, but may last as long as 6 weeks. The majority of the swelling will be gone within the first 3-4 weeks. However it may take 6-9 months to disappear completely. The compression garment helps reduce the swelling, and the longer it is worn, the more quickly the process will proceed.

Swelling is quite normal for 9 days after surgery. I normally advise my patients to wear their drains (if used) for about 2 weeks after surgery, and to wear their compression garment 24/7 for 3 weeks then from 3 to 6 weeks,   during the day, but you can take it off at night. The garment will help reduce swelling. Swelling may take a few weeks to subside.

This is absolutely normal.
9 days is VERY EARLY.
Swelling may easily last for 2 months before you notice any significant change.
Discuss your concerns with your surgeon. It is early in the post operative period and I am sure you will be in for multiple visits.