Skin Contractions After Tumescent Liposuction?

Question

I'm 43 years old and I had tumescent lipo done 2 wks ago. My skin is retracting really bad that it feels like contractions coming and going. Or even better to say like cramps. This does not really hurt but it is very unconfortable feeling for me. I also have a lot of areas that are lumpy around the waist area, with some skin irregularities. Is this normal for the skin to contract this way? Or should I be concern?

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s
not unusual to have significant changes in the immediate post-operative period
following tumescent liposuction. 
These changes occur for a variety of reasons including swelling, skin
tightening and in rare cases muscle spasms.  It’s normal to have lumps, bumps and swelling and over the
course of time skin may tighten as well.

In
your case what you describe as skin contractions is probably muscle spasm.  When liposuction is performed on the
abdomen, the underlying muscles can occasionally be traumatized.  When these muscles are traumatized they
can intermittently contract which creates the sensation of cramps.

In
most cases, these spasms resolve spontaneously.  In some cases massage and occasionally muscle relaxants are
helpful.  It’s important to discuss
these issues with your plastic surgeon, so the situation can be managed
appropriately.

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

When the area heals after tumescent lipo, there can be irregular tissue for months.  In 6-8 months, thing should be back to normal, minus the fat.  Although some irregularity is expected after lipo if an aggressive procedure is performed.  Micro-tumescent needs to be defined by the one advertising the procedure as the tumescent name is general at best. Thank you for your question and good luck with everything.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

There is a very active process of healing after liposuction for months.  New collagen is being formed and swelling first increases then decreases.  Compression garments often minimize some of the symptoms but do not eliminate them. For most patients the symptoms continue to improve especially in the next several weeks from the point at which you are. Certainly you should see your surgeon for reassurance.

Christopher V. Pelletiere, MD · Answer

Since your liposuction was only two weeks ago, you still have alot of changes that are going to occur.  It is normal to have nerve sensation changes, unevenness, swelling, etc.  for at least a month, if not two.  The contractions you are feeling are usually muscle spasms that will subside in the next week or two.  Just be patient, wear some compression garments as much as possible, and everything should smooth out over time.  I hope this helps.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

It is typical for the skin to feel slightly numb and to have some unevenness right after liposuction. Swelling will also result in the impression of folds or lines on the skin from the compression garment. The muscle cramping is not very  common and may do better as you begin to move around more. Skin contraction will take several weeks so work closely with your surgeon and be patient.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

Skin Contractions After Tumescent Liposuction?

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Answer: 2 Weeks Is Too Early For Final Lipo Results

Answer: Skin contraction and smoothing takes time after liposuction

Answer: Skin contraction and smoothing takes time after liposuction

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Skin Contractions After Tumescent Liposuction?

Answers (9)

Answer: 2 Weeks Is Too Early For Final Lipo Results

Answer: 2 Weeks Is Too Early For Final Lipo Results

Answer: Skin contraction and smoothing takes time after liposuction

Answer: Skin contraction and smoothing takes time after liposuction

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Everything you need to know about Tumescent Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.