Had lipo 7 days ago, first day after my waist was nice. Now it’s swelled up and hard. When will the swelling go away? (photos)

Question

I just had liposuction 7 days ago and the first day after the procedure my waist was curved and now it’s swelled up. I want to know when my swelling will go away. Here is a before picture of the first day I had the procedure and the second picture is 7 days post op. My Doctor recommended lymoathic massages

Kyle Coleman, MD · Answer

Swelling after liposuction generally rebounds starting at day 4 and can be quite dramatic depending on the amount of fat removed, the location, and the person.   It is important to wear the compression device as instructed, drink lots of water, and stay active (as permitted).   If swelling is uncomfortable, lymphatic massage can be a great way to reduce this swelling temporarily.  Often patients, will do lymphatic massage starting around day 5 or 6 and do them weekly for the first month.  Best of luck.

Sam Jejurikar, MD · Answer

It's very reassuring that your waist looked good the first day after the procedure. That indicates that, once the postoperative swelling goes away, you should have results that you like. It generally takes 6-12 months for all of the swelling to go away. Lymphatic massage is helpful, as is faithful usage of your compression garment.Hope this helps - Sam Jejurikar, MD

Kamran Azad, MD · Answer

Every patient recovers differently and it depends on the extent of the surgery, but you are still very early in the recovery process. On average, most patients will see 90% of the ultimate results three to six months after the procedure. It can take several months for the swelling to completely go away, but wearing a garment can help reduce the initial swelling. If you have any concerns, I would consult with your plastic surgeon so they can monitor your recovery.Kamran Azad MD, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

Karthik Ram, MRCS, DNB · Answer

Hello, Thanks for sharing your pick. It is common for swelling and induration to develop after liposuction. It usually takes 2-3 months for the results to show. Pressure garment and massage can help in quicker resolution of swelling. Follow up with your operating surgeon regarding post operative protocol.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is common to develop swelling at this stage and will take several weeks to suside. It can take up to 4-6 months to see the final results. Please continue to follow with your physician

Had lipo 7 days ago, first day after my waist was nice. Now it’s swelled up and hard. When will the swelling go away? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Post lipo swelling

Answer: Post lipo swelling

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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Had lipo 7 days ago, first day after my waist was nice. Now it’s swelled up and hard. When will the swelling go away? (photos)

Answers (7)

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Liposuction

Answer: Post lipo swelling

Answer: Post lipo swelling

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.