Does skin retract post-liposuction?

Question

I am a male, 6'4" and about 230 pounds, pre-op. I had liposuction of the flank and abdomen, and a double gynecomastectomy. About two liters were removed in the lipo, and surgery was just under a week ago. I woke up to some loose and excess skin, but my skin elasticity is always been fairly good. My question is whether or not that will improve and over what time period. Will my skin retract? Is there anything that can be done to help it?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

This is difficult to answer without pictures and needs an in-person evaluation to go over skin laxity. That being said, I recommend adding exilis/venus legacy for further skin tightening, vanquish for further fat removal, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. I also recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling, which you will have up to 3-6 months after your procedure. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Skin does retract some after liposuction, but pictures or an exam would be necessary to provide better advice.

Alexander G. Nein, MD, MS, FACS · Answer

As your liposuction was just
one week ago, your body is still early in the recovery process. Normally, it’ll
take between 6 and 9 months to see your final results, including your skin
conforming to your new contours. This takes time – your skin won’t spring back
into shape in just a few days. Follow your plastic surgeon’s post-op advice,
rest up and let your body heal in its own time.

Ven Erella, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. Skin after liposuction in general will retract by how much it varies from person to person. Usually takes about 6-9 months to shrink. Pl follow instructions from your PS

Mehdi K. Mazaheri, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. There are serveral factors that will determine your skins' ability to tighten post lipo. Age and amount of damaged skin (stretch marks) are both important. Wear compression garment.  Be patient, give your self 3-6 months before you panic. Good luck. DrMaz

Alan M. Engler, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

In general, yes.  But the amount/extent of contraction depends on many factors, including what your skin was like before (how thin or thick it was, age, weight gains/losses over your life, etc) and specifics of your surgery (how much fat was taken out from each area).  The best person to answer these questions is of course your own surgeon.  It takes six months or so to see the final results of the procedure but he or she will be able to guide you as to what to expect at each stage of the recovery.  I hope that this helps and good luck, Dr. Alan Engler, Member of #RealSelf500

Does skin retract post-liposuction?

Answers (6)