Is hardness, rippling, and stiffness typical for upper arm lipo recovery?

Question

I had liposuction on my upper arms 2 months ago and still have noticeable stiffness, rippling, and hardness on the inner portion of my upper arms when I reach my arms over my head. I also have a hard dent on the outer side of one. It almost feels like I have ropes in my arms. Yes, I go for ultrasound & massages. Yes, I speak with my board certified ps, but in a larger forum, is this typical for the upper arms? If so, when can I expect them to look normal?

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question, it sounds like you are doing everything you can do. Some people just take longer than others to heal! hang in there

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, you will have swelling, which can last 3-6 months after your procedure. I recommend adding hyperbaric oxygen and lymphatic massage along with your compression to help decrease swelling. To improve your final results, I also recommend adding vanquish for further fat removal, exilis/venus legacy for skin tightening, cellutone/z wave to make the skin smooth, remove scar tissue, and improve the skin’s appearance. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

LC817.   I appreciate your concern, however it can take as long as six months for complete recovery from liposuction. It can’t take that long for all swallowing to resolve, subcutaneous scarring to settle down and skin to retract. Try to stay patient and follow up with you or plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear LC817,I understand your concern. However, without a proper assessment it would be difficult to determine what is wrong. It is best that you visit your plastic surgeon for further assessment. Only after thorough examination you can get proper recommendations and advice.Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation and discomfort are still normal.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

Paul C. Dillon, MD · Answer

Hi Thank you for your question. What you are describing at this time is normal. It typically takes 6 months for lipo patients to internally heal after a liposuction procedure. The hardness and stiffness can be due to scar tissue. Lymphatic massages are recommend to my patients here in my practice to break up the scar tissue much quicker. It is also important to stay compressed with the proper cosmetic garment. Continue to follow your doctors instructions and you will see drastic changes. Hope this helps, Dr. Dillon

Is hardness, rippling, and stiffness typical for upper arm lipo recovery?

Answers (6)