Uneven swelling on love handles after Liposuction?

I had a Liposuction 3  weeks ago (May 26) on my love handles. I noticed that my right love handle is gone, but the left one is not gone completely. I know I'm still swollen because I feel sore and lumpy on both sides. I still have bruising on my left love handle, but it looks fatter.

Did my doctor left some fat in this area, or is this just swelling? I believe the doctor had to work on one side more than on the other (not sure which side though), would that cause the uneven swelling?

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4 answers to “Uneven swelling on love handles...”

A: It's too early to tell on this

Joel Schlessinger, MD

It takes about 4 to 8 weeks to see the final results of liposuction, so don't worry yet.  It may still be naturally swollen, so this may be completely normal so far. On the other hand, if it is painful or warm, please contact your doctor as you may need treatment for an infection or collection of fluid.

A: Time Heal All

Christopher L. Hess, MD

Three weeks isn't enough time to make any conclusions about your result.  There is still a modest amount of swelling and if one side had to be worked on more than the other it may have more swelling.   At three weeks post op I have my patients go from wearing the garment 24 hours per day to 12... more

A: Uneven swelling after liposuction

Steven Wallach, MD

 Uneven swelling after liposuction can be normal anatomical differences between the two sides,  uneven removal of fat, or just uneven swelling. You should give it some time and if you are concerned talk it over with your doctor and review your pre-op photos.

A: Give it time

Robert M. Jensen, MD

It is too early to tell what your final result will be.  It is not uncommon to have one side more swollen than the other after liposuction.  I would give it at least three months and even six, preferably, to see your final result.  If after six months there is still a marked difference I would... more

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