Extreme pain and ALOT of swelling a few hours after surgery - is this normal?

Question

I just got Smart Lipo on my abs. I am leaking a lot (red) and I can’t stand up by myself- every time I need to get up because it’s so painful. I felt fine after the surgery, but once the numbing wore off I am in a lot of pain. I have been taking pain killers but they hardly work. I am extremely swollen only after a few hours of surgery. I have sweating and nausea as well. I am very scared from the pain (the fact that I can’t get up by myself) and a lot of swelling only a few hours after surgery.

Jed H. Horowitz, MD, FACS · Answer

hello ecd123 Recovery is mostly base on the level of soreness or bruising that you may experience, however, most activity is unlikely to delay healing or create problems with recovery.  Many studies indicate that there is also less injury than the traditional liposuction method resulting in less pain, swelling and bruising. #pain #swelling

Scott C. Lindsay, DO · Answer

Hi! What you are feeling sounds normal. You will be swollen and have some discomfort. The drainage you describe sounds normal. I would suggest going over this information with your surgeon. It's important to keep communication open with your surgeon. Best of luck to you!

David E. Berman, MD (retired) · Answer

the fluid you are leaking is perfectly normal. it is just blood tinged infiltrate that is leaking out. i am sure that you are sorry but i suspect . your anxiety is making it much worse. you can always visit your PS the day after your procedure and he can examine you and give you a stronger painkiller (it is almost impossible to phone in any strong painkillers these days due to federal rules). it is normal to swell and it will get worse for about 72 hours. you will feel better if you move around and walk around.it will get better soon.david berman md

Extreme pain and ALOT of swelling a few hours after surgery - is this normal?

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Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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

Extreme pain and ALOT of swelling a few hours after surgery - is this normal?

Answers (3)

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

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