Lumps and Bumps After Liposuction

John LoMonaco, MD answers: Lumps and swelling after tumescent Liposuction

I had tumescent liposuction on my stomach and love handles 18 days ago. On day 16, I became swollen and sore, almost so much that it looks like I did not have the procedure. I also noticed some hard lumps around where my pants fall. Are all these normal? Does it get worse before it gets better? I almost feel like I'm in more pain than I was right after the procedure. I am getting my arms done in a couple of weeks and am wondering if the same thing will happen.


John LoMonaco, MD
1 month ago

Lumps and bumps after lipo are not unusual in my experience, even a few weeks down the road.  In your case, the swelling could be from several causes, including too much early activity, not wearing a compression garment, and prolonged sitting.

I include a lymphatic massage for all of my clients because I think it speeds healing and reduces swelling. I also keep them in compression garments 24/7 at first.

The other doctors mentioned possible infection, and certainly any patient who develops swelling and increased pain a week or so after surgery needs to be seen. 

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