Grand Rapids Liposuction doctors

Be patient. The shape you saw on postop day one should return after the swelling resolves. Liposuction is very effective at removing significant volumes of fat from unwanted areas. While the incisions for liposuction are very small and well concealed, the area of treatment is typically widespread. Along with the fat removal and manipulation of the deeper tissues comes postoperative edema (swelling).  All of the tunnels created from the fat removal are susceptible to swelling/fluid retention. This is why it is advisable to have a well fitting compression garment. The compression will help to reduce post-op swelling. If you weigh yourself post-op, you will likely be heavier than you were before surgery.  This increase is often related to post-op swelling. You can expect to have significant swelling over the initial 2-3 wks with progressive improvement through the third month. Make sure you visit with your plastic surgeon to be sure that you don't have a seroma. Otherwise, wear a well fitted compression garment. I encourage all of my patients to resume active fitness throughout their recovery, but be sure to review your plans with your surgeon. Best of luck. Dr. Renucci

Liposuction recovery is a work in progress. Most patients undergoing liposuction expect to look in the mirror in the early postoperative period (0-6wks) and see immediate results. Unfortunately with liposuction comes inflammation and edema (swelling) which is what your are feeling as lumps.  "scar" tissue isn't something I worry about until the treated are is totally healed which is months down the road.  Massage the areas of "lumps" and meet with your plastic surgeon to be certain you are on the expected course to recovery. Best of luck. Dr. Renucci

The reason for elevation and compression garments following liposuction is to reduce post-operative swelling. The fact that you forgot should have little if any impact on your long-term result. Most post-operative swelling occurs within the first 72 hours and will resolve over the next several days or weeks depending on the area treated.  For facial surgery elevation is easy because your head is above you heart most of the day, and even at night with one pillow. With other body areas it is more difficult to keep the surgery site elevated above your heart, such as is the case with the legs.  Though there is very little evidence that compression garments make a difference long term, I generally recommend them because I feel they help limit swelling and patients achieve their end result more quickly.  In addition, for some areas of the body it can be more comfortable for the patient following surgery.