Fast facts

Liposuction


What it is: Liposuction or lipoplasty is a surgical procedure to address excess fat deposits in specific areas of the body.  Liposuction is not intended to be a weight loss solution.


What it addresses:  Fat deposits in body areas including:

- Stomach
- Buttocks, Hips & Thighs
- Love Handles
- Saddle Bags
- Calves & Ankles
- Breasts
- Back


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Question

What can I do for nerve pain following liposuction?

I had lipo 22 days ago to my arms and upper/lower abs. Now that the numbness has worn off, I am having a really hard time with what seems like nerve pain. My skin feels like it has been severely burned. The arms are the worst and the compression garment is unbearable by evening.

I am at 10 hours daily of compression garment wear, but am unsure which is worse, as going without it is very painful also. I think I need to stay in it more, since I still have swelling. I am doing epsom salts baths daily and had a lymphatic massage this week. I begin endermologie treatments next week if I am able to stand it.

All pain killers I have tried are completely ineffective. 800 mg Ibuprofen isn't helping, either. Is there anything anyone can recommend? My anxiety level from this is affecting me in a huge way. I'm not wanting to go back to using the Darvocet if possible because it caused severe constipation. I'm hoping to get in to see my doctor on Friday. Thanks so much


Asked by: SoSopainful
Houston

Answers (2)

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1
November 20, 2008

Burning pain is a dyesthesia

Jeffrey Zwiren, MD
Jeffrey Zwiren, MD
Board Certified
Plastic Surgeon

The burning pain your are experiencing is most likely a hyperesthesia or dysethesia, essentially a bruised nerve.  Most commonly patient's complain of a deep burn or ache.  Even light touch to the area can cause this type of  pain.  It will get better with some time.  If it is very disruptive then there are some medications that may be of use such as nortryptilline and neurotin.  You should have another examination from your surgeon and discuss the type of pain that you are having especially to rule out anyother treatable cause. 

2
October 6, 2008

See your doctor now to make sure you don't have an infection.

Toby G. Mayer, MD
Toby G. Mayer, MD
Board Certified
Facial Plastic Surgeon

Normally after liposuction there is little or no pain after 24-48 hours. I would call your doctor and request to be seen to make sure you have no infection or other complication.

I would not do the endermologie treatment if you are having pain. At the same time, if not before, I would call to get a different pain reliever that is non-constipating.

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