Uneven bulge on one side post tummy tuck - what could this be? (Photo)

I encourage you to return to your surgeon for an evaluation of the bulge that concerns you. It could be swelling related to your surgery or it could be fluid build up. Your surgeon should help provide clarification for you.

Thank you for your history and for sharing your pictures, Powerful479374. In regard to the bulge you're noticing on one side after your tummy tuck and recent liposuction, there are several possibilities to consider. These include the development of a seroma (fluid collection), hematoma (blood collection), a hernia, or the partial or complete tearing of your prior tummy tuck rectus muscle plication sutures.

A physical examination and possibly radiographic workup, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI, will be necessary to determine the exact cause of this lump.

If it’s a seroma, the fluid can usually be drained with a needle every other day over several weeks.
If it’s a hematoma, it might only need to be drained once or twice in the office with a needle.
If it’s a hernia, surgery might be required to repair it. A hernia can be best confirmed with imaging such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.
Additionally, if your plastic surgeon used permanent sutures to repair the rectus muscles during your tummy tuck, it’s possible that some of these sutures have broken. Liposuction in the area can sometimes cause strain on these stitches, leading to a partial bulge of the rectus abdominis muscle. This can also be visualized on imaging like a CT or MRI.
Given the noticeable difference and the hard lump you're feeling, I recommend following up with your plastic surgeon promptly to determine the cause of the bulge. They will be able to evaluate the situation and recommend appropriate treatment based on the findings.

I hope this helps to answer your question about the bulge you developed after your tummy tuck and liposuction. Wishing you the best of luck.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Dear Powerful479374,
I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment, it would be difficult to determine what is 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, MDCertified, American Board of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Plastic SurgeryMember, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery