My stomach isn't flat 40 days after lipo. And I look bigger than I looked 2 weeks ago. What might be the problem?

Typically, the worst swelling is seen within the two first weeks after liposuction.From then on, the swelling gradually decreases for the next three to six months.When liposuction is applied correctly to a patient who is a good candidate, improvements should be seen immediately and only improve from there.At four weeks, you are still swollen, and your results should continue to improve.You did not mention if you feel that you are seeing results in comparison to before surgery.This may simply be swelling that will take time to go down or simply unimpressive results.The lack of results after liposuction generally comes for one of two reasons.In order to deliver impressive results with liposuction, the procedure has to be done correctly, and patient selection needs to be somewhat strict.Some people are not good candidates for liposuction.This really comes down to what the primary diagnosis is.If someone has muscle separation and loose skin from pregnancy, liposuction is not the appropriate treatment. However, if a patient has tight skin and thick layers of unevenly distributed subcutaneous fat, then he or she is typically a great candidate for liposuction.The second variable is obviously how the procedure is performed.If insufficient amounts of fat are removed or the fat is removed unevenly, then results will obviously suffer.Based on the limited information, none of us can give you an accurate assessment for your specific situation.I suggest following up with your plastic surgeon to see what he or she has to say about your outcome.If this does not answer your concerns, then you may want to consider a second opinion when you're at least six months out from surgery.Hopefully results will continue to improve, and you will be pleased with your outcome.Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

Contact your surgeon for a follow up exam.  In general, I recommend my patients resume their exercise program as well as to continue wearing the compression garment.  Also, at this time in recovery it is good to get deep tissue massages to help with healing.  Best wishes!