Question:
I am post op from a panniculectomy

I am post op from a panniculectomy. I had it on Feb 4 2005.I am wondering if I should be worried. My stomach is bigger now than before surgery. I look like I am about 4-5 months pregnant. I am a little sore in the stomach area. They only left the drains in for 5 days. Just wondering if I need to call them or if this kind of swelling is normal?    — jenn5173 (posted on March 8, 2005)

March 8, 2005
following any surgery if you ever have any questions, you should not hesitate to call your doctor for anything no matter how small. He is getting several thousand dollars for the surgery and followup. It is his job and respnsibility to be there for you. He can't help you if he doesn't know there is a problem or question.
   — **willow**

March 8, 2005
Jennifer: I am not an expert since I haven't had any plastic done yet, but from talking to people, and reading, it sounds like you might have a fluid build up. I would definitely call the Dr if I were you!! Are you wearing a compression garment or binder? I've read that helps prevent swelling. I'm surprised they took your drains out so fast! I've heard alot of people say they had them in a couple weeks. Please call your Dr, you'll feel better having checked it out!! Good luck!!! DeeAnn
   — DeeAnn

March 8, 2005
You definately need to contact your surgeon. He may need to drain some fluid from the site to help with the swelling or check for an abscess. That is a lot of swelling for 4 wks post-op. Get it checked out!!!
   — wealthgvr

March 8, 2005
Yes, a fluid collection (seroma) sounds likely. These usually need to be drained so get in to see your surgeon soon.
   — DrL

March 9, 2005
Hi. As the others said, it sounds like a fliud build up, so give your Dr. a call. As for drains, mine were out before I left the hospital after my abdominoplasty, as they were after my rny and gall bladder surgery. I think all Drs. are different, and don't know if there are any true right or wrong ways of doing things.
   — Fixnmyself

March 11, 2005
I had my abdominoplasty the 15th of December. Surgeon left the drains in until I was less than 20 ml a day for 3 - 4 days, which amounted to about 5 weeks. Some people produce more fluid than others, but it can cause a lot of discomfort and even infection to collect a lot of fluid. You should call your dr right away and be seen as soon as possible.
   — Brenda D.