American Society of Plastic Surgeons
For Medical Professionals
 
Scoutdog
2 years ago
Answered

Swelling on one side for last 10 years

Since abdominoplasty TEN years ago, my lower right abdomen does not have the lymphatic drainage it did pre-surgery. I have to wear a control garment daily. If I don't, then I can pinch mostly skin on one side of my navel but about 3x as much thickness on the other. Feels & appears swollen right side only. Is there a fix to this besides control garments or having a total revision surgery? Thanks!

Procedure: Tummy Tuck
Location: Fairview, TN

Replies 4

Gary Culbertson
ASPS Surgeon
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An evaluation and some radiological studies most likely would be required to answer you questions. Though very expensive an MRI with contrast or weighted images may give you a much better insight into what has happened. Make sure to take your old operative reoport and pre- operative pictures to whomever you consult. Consider an ASPS surgeon very familar with revision cosmetic Abdominoplasty's in your area. Best,

Gary R Culbertson, MD, FACS

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Chao-Chuan Wu
ASPS Int. Surgeon

I suggest that you have a total revision surgery and have the drains placed in the lower incision long enough to drain all the fluid and this might improved the problem and your belly will look symmetric again.

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Nelson Castillo

Thank you for sharing your question. Unfortunately without more information it is difficult to offer advice. Most likely a revision procedure will be needed to completely address the issue but I would seek out several in-person consultations first.

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Archibald Miller
ASPS Surgeon

Since the swelling is so persistent, you should consult a plastic surgeon and ask him to have an ultrasound performed to look at the area and search for a cause. even consider a small foreign body.

arch miller

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