Liposuction: Q&A

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How Long Does it Usually Take for Swelling to Go Down After Liposuction?

I am planning on getting liposuction of my hips, thighs, and knees. My PS said he could probably remove around 5000cc and he's closing the incisions. I know I will need to wear the compression garment for 4 weeks. I'm concerned with post-op swelling and was wondering how long after the procedure will it take to fit into my pre-op pants? I have a few family events shortly after(within 3-4weeks) and I'm not sure if I will be able to fit into my normal clothes. How long until I can see changes?

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swelling healing timing

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5 Doctor Answers | Asked by minimi in silver springs, MD

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Swelling after Liposuction?

Thank you for your question. Swelling is part of the healing process. I ask my liposuction patients to wear a compression garment for 4 weeks post op surgery to help with the swelling. The swelling can take months to subside and even longer for skin to “redrape". At that point you will see the final results. Best Wishes.

At 1 week post op you should already start to be alittle smaller than before the liposuction.

With almost all tumescent tech liposuctions you swell for 3-4 days but you aren't normally any bigger than you were before the liposuction. At 1 week you are just starting to get alittle smaller already and at 1 month you should see a big difference in your size already. You will continue to shrink each month and the end result will be usually seen at the 6 month period. Your normal clothes should fit ok throughout the whole process. Sincerely, David Hansen,MD more

David Hansen, MD

19 reviews

Beverly Hills Dermatologic Surgeon

www.DrDavidHansen.com

Swelling After Liposuction

Initial swelling is 2-3 weeks. To help expedite this, we recommend lymphatic drainage and ultrasound massage starting one week after surgery about 2-4 times over 2 weeks. Additional swelling can take 3-4 months to resolve with final results seen around 6-12 months.

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How Long Does it Usually Take for Swelling to Go Down After Liposuction?

If you are so concerned than delay the operation so you have more healing time. On average a month to 3 months is the range for full healing after any type of liposuction. Regards

Swelling from liposuction can last several weeks

Most of the obvious swelling from liposuction will resolve within a few weeks, however, the finer swelling and skin contraction can take several months. By around six months after surgery, you should be able to see your final results. Please direct these specific questions to your plastic surgeon at the time of your consultation or your surgery. Best wishes, Dr.Bruno

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