3 weeks post op and still sore. Is it normal to experience tenderness, burning and itching 3 wks post op after liposuction?

Question

My skin is tender to the touch. Also burns at times and still numb in my back.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Pain is normal but pain and continuous burning out of the ordinary is not so you should speak to your physician.  You are likely still swollen and need more post operative care and better compression.  Best, Dr. Emer

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question. By three weeks after your procedure you should have been seeing a steady improvement in your swelling, tenderness and overall healing process.  It is not uncommon to still have some soreness depending on the location and amount of liposuction performed, while the itching and burning sensations are the result of irritated skin nerves which can take several months to fully resolve.  Be sure to maintain close follow-up with your surgeon to ensure an uncomplicated recovery and so that they can provide you with further reassurance.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear, thanks for your question and provided information as well.. This is the surgical procedure that revolutionized cosmetic surgery becoming one of the most performed cosmetic procedures. Subcutaneous tissue or fat is removed in order to contour the body in a way that is harmonious and pleasing to the senses. It can be performed in almost all regions of the body such as the neck, chin, abdomen, back, buttocks, thighs, arms and ankles. Usually done through a small incision in the skin through which a cannula connected to a vacuum is applied, it can be performed alone or in combination with other procedures. After liposuction your body is going to be really swollen for at least 2 to 4 months after your surgery. It is important for you to wear your compression garment for at least 6 months, the first 3 months 24/7 and then the last 3 months at least 12 hours per day for your body get use to not having the faja for so many time. When you remove it, your body can get swollen and also you can have pain. Remember to also compress your body to prevent a seroma which is an accumulation of liquid that has to be drained, it is hard to touch and also really painful. Bruises are completely normal for almost 3 months from surgery, that’s why is better for you to use a bruising cream and apply it all over your body 3 times a day. To prevent bad circulation and swollen legs, use compression socks. Brazilian butt lift can be performed with the same procedure and for a month it will be swollen and it will drop a little bit without losing it’s shape if you use your garment.. If you’re going to perform liposuction on your inner, outer, anterior, lateral, postetior thighs, be careful and consult with your surgeon what’s best for you, sometimes we have more extra skin than fat, that can cause severe sagginess on our legs, which can be only be reversed performing a thigh lift…

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes, you are still very early in your healing phase and still may have some burning and numbness, especially since you still have some swelling. Please follow your post operative instructions, and discuss any concerns you have with your doctor.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

You are still healing and the weird sensations you are experiencing are not uncommon during the early post-op. Best to see your doctor if concerned.

3 weeks post op and still sore. Is it normal to experience tenderness, burning and itching 3 wks post op after liposuction?

Answers (5)

Answer: Discomfort

Answer: Discomfort

Answer: Liposuction and sensitivity

Answer: Liposuction and sensitivity

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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

3 weeks post op and still sore. Is it normal to experience tenderness, burning and itching 3 wks post op after liposuction?

Answers (5)

Answer: Discomfort

Answer: Discomfort

Answer: Liposuction and sensitivity

Answer: Liposuction and sensitivity

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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