I have stiffness and reduced range of motion after Liposuction. Is this normal?

Question

On 9 Sep I had tumescent liposcupture on my abdomen (with mild etching), flanks, inner/outer thighs and knees. I am finding it very hard to transition from one position to another (sitting to standing, etc...) without it feeling like the muscles and skin in my legs and stomach are pulling and are so tight that my movements are seriously hampered. Not to mention that it's pretty painful. Is this sort of stiffness to be expected, for how long and what can I do about this? I feel like I'm 90!

George Volpe, MD · Answer

I find following liposuction there tends to be a period of stiffness that patients complain about. This is usually between weeks four and eight and coincides with the time when the body is making maximal amount of scar tissue. Scar tissue also has the quality of contracting a bit which can make things feel quite tight. Massaging an area often helps.  Fortunately, scar tissue starts to resolve and loosen around week 10 or 12.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

Depending on the aggressiveness of the liposuction this can be normal. When it improves varies from patient to patient. I would recommend that you just keep cold follow up with your plastic surgeon.

Scott W. Vann, MD, FACS · Answer

Most patients have a lot of soreness and stiffness after liposuction. Sometimes it is still pretty severe for 2-3 weeks or a little longer. Yours may be normal recovery , but show to your surgeon to be sure.

Francisco Canales, MD · Answer

I would say that you should return to your surgeon and make sure there is nothing to be worried about, like a fluid collection or infection. Most liposuction patients feel great within a couple of weeks, so it is best to be re-checked by your doctor.

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Sorry to hear that you are experiencing stiffness, I recommend following up with your surgeon with the concern you are having. After Smartlipo you will have minimal bruising and swelling which will reside within a few weeks as you are healing. Good luck in your recovery.

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

Thanks for your question,I tell my patients that post-op it will feel like you have finished a very hard work out. This typically improves over a few weeks. Wearing your garment and complying with your surgeons post-operative instructions will help ensure a great recovery. I would make sure you keep all you appointments and keep him or her up to date on status, I know they would want to know.I hope this helpsStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

It's fairly common for people to feel stiff after liposuction.We encourage our patients to get back to normal activity as soon as possible. This includes movement and gentle stretching.Expect the stiffness to last between three to six weeks.Talk to your plastic surgeon about it.Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

I have stiffness and reduced range of motion after Liposuction. Is this normal?

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