Feeling weak and lightheaded after Liposuction.

Your body just went through a dramatic event. The anesthesia, the removal of fat and the antibiotics are a lot for a body to deal with all at once. Continue checking in with your surgeon and following your post op instructions. Get plenty of rest, keep hydrated and call you surgeon if you are not feeling better.

You were right to check in with your surgeon. Your symptoms are fairly common after an exptensive procedure as you describe.

Feeling weak and lightheaded after liposuction is not uncommon, as the body undergoes significant stress during the surgical procedure and the recovery period afterward. Here are some potential reasons for feeling this way and what you can do about it:
1. Anesthesia effects: Anesthesia used during the surgery can sometimes cause feelings of weakness and lightheadedness as it wears off. This is typically temporary and should improve as the anesthesia fully clears from your system.
2. Blood loss and fluid shifts: Liposuction involves the removal of fat cells, which can lead to some blood loss and fluid shifts within the body. This can contribute to feelings of weakness and lightheadedness, particularly in the immediate post-operative period.
3. Dehydration: It's essential to stay well-hydrated after surgery to support the healing process and prevent complications. Dehydration can exacerbate feelings of weakness and lightheadedness, so make sure to drink plenty of fluids unless otherwise instructed by your plastic surgeon.
4. Low blood sugar: If you haven't eaten much or if your appetite is suppressed after surgery, you may experience low blood sugar levels, leading to feelings of weakness and lightheadedness. Eating small, nutritious meals or snacks can help stabilize your blood sugar levels.
5. Pain medication: Pain medications prescribed after surgery can sometimes cause drowsiness and feelings of weakness. Make sure to take your medications as prescribed by your plastic surgeon, but be cautious of any side effects they may cause.
6. Overexertion: It's important to rest and avoid strenuous activity in the days following liposuction to allow your body to heal properly. Overexertion can lead to fatigue and lightheadedness, so listen to your body and take it easy.
If you're experiencing persistent or severe weakness and lightheadedness after liposuction, it's crucial to contact your plastic surgeon or seek medical attention promptly. These symptoms could indicate a more serious complication, such as excessive bleeding or fluid loss, that requires immediate medical intervention. Your plastic surgeon can assess your condition and provide appropriate guidance and treatment to address your symptoms effectively.

If you are feeling weak and lightheaded after
liposuction it is possible that you are anemic.Your hemoglobin and hematocrit should be checked to determine if you
would need an iron supplement especially if you’ve had a significant amount of
fat removed during the procedure.

It is always best to contact your surgeon if you have questions.  Feeling weak and Lightheaded after surgery is common especially if you have had a significant amount of fat removed. Best Wishes,Dr. Peter Newen