Liposuction swelling - how long until it goes down?

After liposuction, major swelling may last for a month or two. The minor swelling can linger for several months after that. The skin contraction and shrinkage takes approximately 6-9 months to occur, meaning you may not see your final result/outcome for 6 months to one year after your surgery. The compression garment is to be worn for the first 4-6 weeks to assist in the skin contraction such that an even contour is achieved.
If you notice some hard or firm areas a few weeks after surgery, this is normal. You can gently massage the area with circular motions using a lotion to help expedite the softening process of the firm, calcified fat.
Please consult with a board certified plastic surgeon for any other liposuction related concerns.

At six weeks you are very early after your surgery.  I prefer that the patients stay at home for one week, then they can return to work.  At one month, I allow them to start low-impact cardio.  I like the patients to wear a compression garment for several months after surgery.  You should only begin to see that your clothing fits better at the one month visit. After that time, when you start diet and exercise, you will see results that you have never been able to see before.  Typically by 3 months the are very nice contours, but the final results are not apparent until 6 months.  Your lumpiness will likely resolve with time.  For my patients that feel lumps at 6 weeks, I ask them to massage the area, which is often enough to soften the bumps.  

In general, most people can return to light work and activities within a week, but full recovery from liposuction typically takes about 4-6 weeks, with final results appearing over a few months.
Here’s a general timeline for recovery:
-Immediately after surgery: You’ll spend time in a recovery room and may feel groggy due to anesthesia. You may be wearing a compression garment to help minimize swelling. Pain is usually mild, and pain medication is prescribed.
-First week: Most people need to wear the compression garment 24/7 and may experience swelling and bruising. Some patients return to work after 3-4 days, while others may take a bit longer. You will be tapering off of pain medication.
-Two weeks after surgery: The compression garment is typically worn around the clock except when showering. Swelling will still be present.
-Three weeks after surgery: Swelling decreases, and some patients can resume light exercise. The results of the liposuction will start to become more visible as swelling subsides. However, some residual swelling can last for several months.
-One month and beyond: By the end of the first month, most of the swelling should have significantly reduced. Full recovery, with final results, often takes several months. Patients can typically return to more strenuous activities after 4-6 weeks, but complete results and final contouring can take up to 6 months to a year. Protocols may vary. Some surgeons also recommend lymphatic massage to help reduce swelling, improve circulation, and speed up recovery.
It is important to consult with an experienced plastic surgeon who can customize your surgical plan and determine the best technique for you based on your individual anatomy and goals.
Krishna Vyas, MD, PhD, MHSHarvard, Hopkins, & Mayo Clinic Trained Aesthetic Plastic SurgeonNew York, New York

Swelling after liposuction can vary but typically begins to subside within a few weeks to a few months. At six weeks post-procedure, it's normal to still experience some swelling and numbness. Lumps and unevenness, like what you're describing, can occur as the body heals and adjusts to the fat removal. These issues often resolve gradually as the swelling decreases. The complete resolution of swelling and settling of the skin can take up to six months, sometimes longer. However, persistent lumps or asymmetry should be discussed with your surgeon, as they may suggest massages, compression garments, or occasionally, further treatments to help smooth the area.

Thank you for your question regarding the swelling and lumpy appearance you are experiencing after liposuction on your saddlebags and above your butt.

Swelling is a normal part of the recovery process following liposuction and can vary significantly from person to person. Generally, most of the swelling starts to subside within the first few weeks, but it can take up to three to six months for all swelling to resolve completely. During this time, it's common to experience fluctuations in swelling, especially with activity levels.

The lumpiness you are noticing can be due to several factors. It could be residual swelling, fluid accumulation, or the normal process of scar tissue formation. Sometimes, the uneven removal of fat or the body's response to the surgery can create temporary lumps or bumps. Numbness is also quite common and usually diminishes as the nerves recover over weeks to months.

Since you are six weeks post-operation, here are a few considerations and tips:

Compression Garments: Continue wearing compression garments as recommended by your surgeon. These can help reduce swelling and improve contouring.
Massage: Gentle massage may be advised to help reduce lumpiness and smooth out the area, but always check with your surgeon before starting massage therapy.
Follow-up Appointments: Keep regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress. They can provide personalized advice and interventions if any irregularities persist.
Patience and Care: It's important to give your body time to heal and adapt. Avoid strenuous activities that could exacerbate swelling.
If the lump feels like it moves and is particularly concerning or painful, it's important to discuss this with your surgeon. In rare cases, a seroma (a collection of fluid that builds up under the skin) might form and require medical intervention.

Recovery from liposuction varies, and while it can be concerning to see or feel unevenness, most issues resolve with time as the body heals. However, keeping in touch with your surgeon and addressing any concerns promptly is crucial to ensuring a smooth recovery process.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

You will see the results immediately. However, your shape and figure will continue to improve as your swelling decreases over the next several months. It can take 4-6 months for the swelling to settle down. I've even seen improvement in results at a year out!