How Can I Differentiate Swelling from Fat After Lipo?

Swelling can figure prominently into liposuction after a few weeks.  The results are typically observed immediately following surgery, and then there is a period of swelling that can persist for 3 to 6 months and sometimes longer.  The key factor in this is to assure that there is only swelling and not a fluid collection that must be drained.  Only a physical exam will be able to sort these issues out.  Kenneth Hughes, MD Los Angeles, CA

You are most likely still swollen since swelling can last about 6-8 weeks. The final result can usually be assessed at 3-4 months. 

At three weeks it may be difficult to differentiate residual fat vs swelling. Give it a few months and then reassess.