Is it normal for one side to be more swollen after Tummy tuck? (photos)

Question

I had a tummy tuck 3 weeks ago my drain were removed and healing good. My concern now is that one side of my abdomen is slightly bigger than the other.I have no pain it's not hard bruised or reddened is this normal or do i have a hematoma?

Miguel Mota, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing.It is normal for most patients have more swelling on one side then the other. Sometimes patients get more sweeping on one side because of their position while resting. Laying on your side while asleep can produce more sweeping on that particular side.It's hard to tell without an in person examination but it is more likely swelling or seroma rather then a hematoma.  In either case it is best to be seen by your PS. Swelling will go down with time. Lymphatic massages can help also. Seromas and hematomas can be drained with a needle or catheter in the office. I can assure you thins not a big problem and you will look great in the near future.Best of luck with your recovery! Dr. Miguel Mota

Christopher Khorsandi, MD · Answer

It is possible that you have a seroma in the area.  It's difficult to tell by the photo/  It would be unlikely to have a hematoma three weeks out.  SOmetimes a seroma needs to be drained in office.  Discuss this with your plastic surgeon.

Robert J. Spies, MD · Answer

It does appear from your picture that one side is a bit more swollen than the other.  I would advise you to see your plastic surgeon very soon or at least call him or her to further evaluate the swelling.  An in-office examination is the only way to help figure out how you are healing.

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic
and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Emmanuel Mallol Cotes, MD · Answer

Thank you very much for sharing your concerns with us.At this point (3 weeks post-po) the swelling is normal.To reduce it, I recommend you perform daily lymphatic drainage massage therapy over the abdomen and wear a postoperative girdle from thigh to the breasts.If after six months post-op, I recommend you send us your photos again, to give you more information about how we can solve this problem.Kind regards,Dr. Emmanuel Mallol Cotes.-

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Hello Ms. Londa. Swelling that appears differently from side to side is pretty normal. Persistent swelling and pressure and pain in the lower abdomen should be brought to the attention of your plastic surgeon. Best wishes always, Dr. ALDO

Jeffrey A. Sweat, MD · Answer

At 3 weeks out from a tummy tuck, a hematoma would be very uncommon and will have usually already have shown itself.  Now that the drain is out, it is possible for you to have a fluid collection on one side and a physical exam in person with your PS would diagnose the issue.  Asymmetric swelling does also occasionally happen after surgery.  Be sure to discuss your concerns with your PS and best of luck with your continued recovery!

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

Three weeks out from tummy tuck there is still going to be significant swelling, sometimes more so on one side..  This can be affected by many things, including the U sleep.  Usually, if it is a hematoma, it is markedly asymmetric and associated with some degree of bruising and/or the sensation that there is a fluid wave when you tap on that skin.  Usually, hematomas of significant size are fairly obvious.  The only way to know for certain as to visit with your surgeon.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Charles Galanis, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to have asymmetries during the initial weeks and even months of recovery.  That can be a normal part of the healing process.  It is important to rule out certain complications such as hematoma (isolated collection of blood) or seroma (isolated collection of non-bloody fluid) that can also yield asymmetry.  Be sure to convey your concerns with your surgeon who can evaluate you and make sure you're on the road to recovery.  Good luck!

Steven J. Rottman, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for the question and photograph. It usually takes three months for swelling to subside following a tummy tuck. The swelling may be asymmetric and resolve on its own. However, I would follow up with your plastic surgeon to make sure it is not a fluid collection causing the asymmetry. Also, make sure you are wearing a properly fitted compression garment for at least 6 weeks or as directed by your surgeon. Hope this helps and good luck!

Is it normal for one side to be more swollen after Tummy tuck? (photos)

Answers (16)

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