Numbness, swelling, and pain after lipo -- what could be causing this? (Photos)

Question

I’ve had numbness, swelling & pain for 5 months since I had my calves lipo’d-but only in my right leg. My dr used a closed drain-I was squeezing fluid out 2 weeks after the procedure. My right leg swells so bad every day, to the point where I can’t feel my foot. It’s been 5 months, today after an airplane ride it looked like this picture-dotted bruises, and feels hot and “itchy.” I don’t live near my PS. What should I do? What could this be?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

I recommend following up with a Doctor today for a formal evaluation. While you may still have some swelling, you may have a seroma or infection, which needs an in-person evaluation. Best, Dr. Emer

Robert H. Hunsaker, MD · Answer

The most important thing to determine is whether or not you have a blood clot in your deep calf veins. You need to see a doctor or E.R. for this.Long term, it may be damage to the lymphatics, damage to the veins, both, chronic fluid collection or everything. If you cannot see your surgeon, find another nearby experienced board certified plastic surgeon for an evaluation.

Numbness, swelling, and pain after lipo -- what could be causing this? (Photos)

Answers (2)