How to reduce pain? 3 months post stomach liposuction

Question

Had a liposuction procedure done 3 months ago on my stomach. I started working out again 4 weeks post procedure (which seemed to exacerbate pain). The last time I worked out was two weeks ago. It’s now been a total of 3 months and I am still in pain. When I stand up straight, it feels like a tight rubber band is in my stomach. Also my stomach is also a little little sore, especially when moving. What can I do to diminish the pain and heal? How long can this take to go away?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi,
Thank you for reaching out with your concerns about managing pain three months after undergoing abdominal liposuction. It's not unusual to experience discomfort during the healing process, particularly as scar tissue, or fibrosis, develops.
To alleviate this discomfort and break down the scar tissue, here are a few strategies you might consider:
Deep Tissue Massage: Seeking the help of a professional massage therapist can be beneficial. Deep tissue massage can help to break up fibrosis and promote healing. Regular sessions may provide significant relief over time.
Vibration Therapy: Using a device like a Theragun or other vibration therapy tools can be effective in breaking up scar tissue. These tools apply concentrated vibrations to the area, helping to soften and reduce fibrosis.
Exercise: Engaging in exercise, even if it's initially uncomfortable, can aid in breaking up scar tissue. Gentle stretching and low-impact activities are good starting points. Gradually increasing the intensity of your workouts can further assist in this process.
Pain Management: While working on breaking up scar tissue, pain management is important. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used as needed, but always consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice.
Surgical Intervention: In cases where conservative therapies don't provide sufficient relief, surgical options like lysis of adhesions might be considered. This procedure involves cutting through internal scar tissue. However, this is typically reserved for more severe or refractory cases.
It's essential to approach the breaking down of scar tissue with patience and persistence. The process can take up to two years, but early and aggressive therapy can significantly expedite healing and reduce discomfort.
Please remember to discuss any new pain management or therapy approach with your healthcare provider or surgeon to ensure it's safe and suitable for your specific case.
I hope this information provides helpful guidance on managing scar tissue after your liposuction procedure.
Wishing you a smooth and comfortable recovery process.
Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

Mild soreness after activity is not uncommon at three months post op.  It may mean you need to proceed more gradually with workout intensity and/or have longer rest periods.  Severe or constant pain is not common three months post op and should be evaluated by your surgeon.

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

Experiencing pain three months post-stomach liposuction is not uncommon, as it can take time for the body to fully heal from the procedure. Here are some steps you can take to help reduce pain and discomfort:1. Follow Post-operative Instructions: Ensure that you are following all post-operative instructions provided by your plastic surgeon. This may include wearing compression garments as directed, avoiding strenuous activities, and taking prescribed medications as needed.2. Use Pain Medication: Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) can help alleviate mild to moderate pain. Follow the recommended dosage instructions, and consult with your plastic surgeon if you require stronger pain medication.3. Apply Cold Compresses: Applying cold compresses or ice packs to the treated area can help reduce swelling and numb the area, which may help alleviate pain and discomfort. Be sure to wrap the ice pack in a cloth to prevent direct contact with the skin and limit application to 15-20 minutes at a time.4. Elevate the Area: Elevating the treated area, especially while resting or sleeping, can help reduce swelling and alleviate pressure, which may contribute to pain relief.5. Massage Therapy: Gentle massage of the treated area can help improve circulation, reduce swelling, and alleviate discomfort. However, it's essential to avoid applying too much pressure or manipulating the area too vigorously, especially if you're still healing.6. Stay Hydrated: Drinking plenty of water can help flush out toxins, reduce swelling, and promote healing. Aim to drink at least 8-10 glasses of water per day unless otherwise directed by your plastic surgeon.7. Maintain a Healthy Diet: Consuming a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains can provide essential nutrients and support the body's healing process.8. Avoid Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and excessive alcohol consumption can impair healing and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, consider quitting or reducing your intake, and avoid alcohol during the recovery period.9. Monitor for Signs of Complications: While some discomfort and pain are normal during the recovery period, it's essential to monitor for any signs of complications such as excessive swelling, severe pain, fever, or unusual discharge. If you experience any concerning symptoms, contact your plastic surgeon promptly.If your pain persists or worsens despite these measures, be sure to follow up with your plastic surgeon for further evaluation and recommendations. They can assess your healing progress, address any concerns, and provide additional guidance or interventions as needed.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

Some people can have some residual discomfort, especially with range of motion exercises a few months after liposuction.
It’s usually mild and slowly gets better on its own.
There’s really nothing you can do to speed up the healing process.
Some people tolerate this discomfort better than others.
 I think gentle range of motion exercises may be helpful, even though they may cause mild discomfort in the short term.
The amount of discomfort, and how long it lasts is often related to how the procedure was performed in regards to the level of aggressiveness.
Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

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