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.

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4 answers to “Lumps and swelling after tumescent...”

A: Liposuction healing

Elizabeth F. Rostan, MD

I have seen lumps and bumps even weeks after tumescent liposuction. It is very often part of normal healing and all goes away with time. If you suddenly got swollen, there could be what is called a seroma, or collection of fluid, that has developed. Often these can be drained to speed healing so... more

A: Lumps and Bumps After Liposuction

John LoMonaco, MD

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... more

A: No, this doesn't sound normal

David Hansen, MD

This is not normal for most liposuctions. When pain and swelling occur 2-3 weeks later it is usually from too strenuous exercise or over doing it too quick and rarely, underlying infection.  Also sometimes localized seromas (fluid collections in a ball) can form which need simple aspiration with a needle... more

A: Are you wearing a garment?

Francisco Canales, MD

Hello, Pain and swelling usually peaks after a few days. It usually then gets better each day.  I would be concerned about: 1. possible infection 2. possibly having done too much too soon. Make sure you are still wearing your compression garment and check in with your doctor. You don't want to start a new... more

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