Bigger on left upper and lower abdomen 2 years post op. What happened to me? (Photo)

Thank you for reaching out with concerns about asymmetry in your upper and lower left abdomen two years following laser liposuction. Your shared history and photographs are valuable, though they offer limited insights without a full physical examination.
Physical Examination: A comprehensive physical examination is crucial for a definitive assessment. This would provide more clarity on the underlying cause of the asymmetry you're experiencing.
Intraperitoneal or Visceral Fat Consideration: Your description suggests a significant presence of intraperitoneal or visceral fat, which is located inside the peritoneal cavity and cannot be addressed with liposuction. Understanding whether this condition existed before the surgery or developed afterward is important.
Body Fat Analysis: An assessment of your body fat percentage could offer insights. Ideally, this should have been part of the pre-surgical evaluation process to establish a baseline for comparison.
CT Scan for Subcutaneous Fat: A CT scan might help in determining the distribution of subcutaneous fat versus visceral fat. This could explain the post-operative appearance and guide further treatment plans.

Follow-up with Your Surgeon: It's essential to consult with the surgeon who performed your liposuction. They can provide specific insights based on your surgical history and the changes observed post-procedure.
In summary, the asymmetry you notice might be due to factors like visceral fat or changes in body composition post-surgery. A detailed evaluation by your plastic surgeon, supported by appropriate imaging studies, will be the best course of action.
I hope this information assists you in understanding the possible reasons for the changes in your abdomen and guides you in seeking further medical advice.
Good luck, and feel free to reach out for any more assistance.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

One half of a person's body is not a mirror image of itself. Organ sizes differ, nerve locations differ, and fat deposits are not equivalent. That being said, the bigger question is what would help improve the aesthetics of the appearance of your abdomen. #1 Lose weight! It may be simply a difference in the angle of the camera, however I would guess that you have not lost weight during the past two years and I will also go out on a limb and state that in all likelihood that you have gained weight. The most important advice that I share with my patients prior to undergoing lipo is: AVOID gaining more than five pounds post op. The residual fat cells hypertrophy at a variable rate which results in one side being large, lumps and bumps and an uneven appearance of the skin. It is definitely an option to repeat Lipo, go for a laser or electromagnetic therapy, but I would advise investing in personal trainer and a dietician first.

Dear Rational936524,
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