Swelling post surgery! Should I be concerned? (Photo)

Question

I had a full tummy tuck with liposuction to my abdomen flanks and inner thighs 6 days ago. My legs are so swollen and my feet are badly swollen too. My left more than my right, (see photo) should I be concerned? I'm taking bromelain tablets 3 times a day. Any other suggestions? When can I expect this to subside? It feels strange when I walk!

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

The swelling of your feet could be a normal result of surgery.  Elevating your feet and watching increased salt intake may help.  However, you will want to notify your surgeon about what you are experiencing so pulmonary embolism can be ruled out.

Riaz Agha, MBBS, DPhil(Oxon), FRCS(Plast) · Answer

The photos does indeed show a swollen left foot compared with the right. Given your history and recent procedure, this may simply represent the post-surgical swelling following the procedures you have had done - tummy tuck and abdominoplasty. However, the greatest concern would be whether this represents a DVT or deep vein thrombosis, especially given its on one side and feels "strange when you walk". 
I would recommend you contact the clinic ASAP and let them know. Your surgeon can then see you ASAP and make a plan. If things worsen or you become short of breath a pulmonary embolism may have occurred, which is an even more serious complication and would require emergency admission to hospital. Don't be alarmed, make contact with your clinic and go from there. Best wishes.

Swelling post surgery! Should I be concerned? (Photo)

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Swelling post surgery! Should I be concerned? (Photo)

Answers (2)

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Everything you need to know about Tummy Tuck

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.