Prolonged swelling after multiple body contouring procedures

Otto Joseph Placik, MD answers: Lower back and abdomen swelling after multiple procedures

I had Ultrasonic Liposuction 3 & 1/2 weeks ago in my mid-section, back, arms, and inner thighs. I also had a butt lift, breast reduction, and breast lift. I had been working out for a good year before the procedure, and had lost about 221 lbs. I'm 5'3" and weighed 140 lbs before my surgery. Since my surgery, I've lost a total of 10 lbs so far.

I was just wondering why am I still swollen in my lower back and lower half of my abdomen? Is that normal? I have no bruising left on my body and I'm still wearing my garment. Is this something I should be concerned about?


Otto Joseph Placik, MD
8 months ago
By Otto Joseph Placik, MD - Chicago Plastic Surgeon

You should of course discuss this with your surgeon to ensure that this is not a problem which requires intervention such as a seroma (treated with aspiration) or infection (necessitating antibiotic therapy or drainage). Having said that, given the magnititude of your procedures, this sounds normal and compatible with the extent of your operation.

It is not unusual to have swelling persist for several months and patients often do not experience decrease in clothing size until a minimum of 2 months after the surgery. Keep in close contact with your surgeon.

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