How Long Does Swelling Post-VASER Lipo Last?

It has been 5 weeks since I had Smart Lipo/VASER Lipo done on my saddlebags, inner thighs, and buttocks. I still need to wear my compression garment for 1 more week. I am still seeing a lot of swelling, especially at the end of the day. I can't easily wear any of my jeans yet. I am a very active person and have my doctor's approval for running and working out. How long can I expect the swelling to continue, and is there anything I can do to make it better? Am I making it worse by exercising? I am ready to get out of the compression garment, but should I wear it longer than 6 weeks if I am still swelling?

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8 Doctor Answers | Asked by marathon runner in Oklahoma City,OK USA

Doctor Answers (8)
Community Comments (1)

+11

I would take it easy and compress until no swelling is noted

Hi there- Swelling, particularly swelling that seems to worsen with activity or at the end of the day, means that the activity or the days events have caused fluid to accumulate in your tissues. Exercising while this is still occurring risks further slowing the healing process, and so my preference for my own patients is to restrict their activity until this has abated and continue to compress as well. The fact that you are still swollen shouldn't alarm you though - often swelling can... more

Post-Operative Vaser Swelling Statistics

We have recently compiled statistics on post-operative bruising and swelling from Vaser liposuction, and although our findings indicate that two weeks is the average time for swelling to subside, a significant number of patients continue to have swelling past 45 days. So, as in your case, swelling after 5 weeks would not be particularly unusual. In our clinic, we use manual lymphatic drainage massage to help the body process fluid build-up, and have found that this reduces the time... more

Most liposuction patients stay swollen for weeks

First, Smart Lipo is different from VASER. If they were combined, then that is a different story. In general, most liposuction patients can stay swollen for several weeks. The more active the patient, the more likely the swelling will persist. VASER and Smart Lipo patients probably stay swollen longer because of the heating component of each device.

Steven Wallach, MD

12 reviews

Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

Swelling after Liposuction depends on the patient

The swelling after liposution depends on the technique and also the patient. You state that you had Smart Lipo/VASER Lipo and that is not right. VASER Lipo is ultrasound liposuction, and it is more invasive and will cause more swelling. Smart Lipo is laser lipo and has much less swelling and faster recovery. Please discussss your concern with your doctor, and also you may benefit from Endermologie.

Kamran Khoobehi, MD

28 reviews

New Orleans Plastic Surgeon

VASER swelling varies by patient

Congratulations on your VASER liposuction procedure. At 5 weeks post-op, you are well on your way to looking great. Be patient with your body and allow yourself to recover at your own pace. Be sure to follow your doctor's orders and keep activity, sodium and caffeine to a minimum. Get a full night's sleep each night and be sure to drink lots of water. VASER liposuction is certainly a significant procedure and your body will heal at it's own pace. I know it is tough at 5 weeks,... more

Vaser liposuction and post operative swelling

Swelling after Vaser asssited liposuction can last up to 6 weeks or more. Post operative swelling occurs in all types of liposuction regardless of the type commpof equipment used. To help limit the post operative swelling time it is important to wear the compression garments and avoid excessive fuild or salt intake.

Swelling after Liposuction

If you’re genuinely worried or the swelling seems abnormal, contact your surgeon immediately. They will be able to determine if there is a cause for concern. However try not to be alarmed as some swelling is to be expected. It’s prudent to keep in mind that after any kind of liposuction, swelling can remain for up to 4 months after your procedure. Being active can also increase swelling & slow down the healing process. It may be a good idea to limit some of your... more

Swelling with Vaser Lipo

First of all, if you think your swelling is excessive, you should definitely contact the board certified plastic surgeon who performed your Vaser Lipo. That being said, I integrate massage therapy into the recovery phase for all my Vaser lipo patients, which definitely helps with swelling and stiffness. We typically apply a compression garment at the time of surgery, and afterwards, parents have various amounts of swelling in both surgical and non surgical areas, depending on... more

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Comments (1)

moush 13 Jan 2013

The study published by Dr Chambers was very very helpful. Most doctors say what the average is. My swelling has gone way beyond the average. Seeing what happened with a wide range of patients help me feel reassured. Bravo Dr. Chambers and thank you!

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