How long will I experience discomfort and swelling after Liposuction?

I have been in practice for 23 years and have been performing liposuction throughout my career. I now use the VASER, but the basic principles remain the same.

I can assure you that it is quite normal to experience swelling following any type of liposuction procedure especially after only five days!

To hasten the absorption process, we have our patients wear compression garments and instruct them to perform anti-edema massage. It is very important in the lower extremities to avoid prolonged sitting and, when not ambulating, to keep the legs elevated.

Swelling should subside with time and the vast majority should dissipate after three weeks. Please keep in mind that without any additional weight gain, that your optimal results will not be seen until 6-9 months.

Thanks for your question.

Hello,

Final results can take a few months to show as swelling comes down gradually. Fortunately, pain is usually quicker to fade. There really isn't much pain for most liposuction patients. That's one of the main reasons lipo is so popular.

Best Regards,

John Di Saia MD

Lucy,

You are just five days post-procedure, so I am not surprised that you still have swelling and discomfort. Rest assured, however, you will improve quickly. It takes about two weeks for a majority of the bruising and swelling to resolve. However, it takes another two to four months for all of the swelling to completely resolve. You will continue to see positive improvements during this time. I can tell you from first-hand knowledge (I had liposuction myself) that whatever you are going through right now if completely worth it. Just give it some time and your symptoms will improve.

Enjoy your new body!

David Shafer, MD

Usually the discomfort lasts for about a week.  Most people complain that it feels like a tought workout at the gym. Bruising and the majority of swelling disappears in 2-3 weeks, but there may be residual swelling for several months.

With liposuction it is normal to have discomfort, brusing and swelling.  It is advisable to continue to wear your compression garment given to you when you had surgery, as this will help with the swelling.  Most patients will not see the final result to surgery for at least 3 months.  Make sure you limit your alcohol and salt intake this will help.   So , be patient ,and i'm sure that you will soon be happy and see the results of your efforts.  

Discomfort and bruising can last one month.  It takes several (usually 4) months to see the final result.  This is not just swelling going away. What also happens is that some remaining fat cells are damaged after liposuction, and so they gradually atrophy. 

This gradual atrophy of fat cells of course makes you look progressively smaller.  This process usually takes 4 months, but you should see most of the improvement in one month.