Will Liposuction Swelling Become Chronic?

Question

I had liposuction procedure done 8 months ago, and my lower abdomen still swells during the day not as much when I just wake up but doesn't take long for it happen as soon as I stand up. I'm so worried that becomes a chronic condition, it is very frustrating.

Ron Shelton, MD · Answer

Swelling that is noticable 8 months after liposuction is not the norm. It still is possible that it may improve over many more months. If there is a seroma (collection of lymph fluid) it may heal itself but sometimes it needs drainage. You might benefit by wearing a compression dressing but be sure it fits well and that it's seam isn't cutting in to the swollen area. You need to followup with your surgeon.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD · Answer

This sounds very unusual and not typical. Depending on the type of lipo that was performed some are more prone to seroma accumulation. You should be evaluated to ensure that this has not occured.

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

By 8 months, your swelling should be resolved. Other reasons for fluctuating abdominal bulging could be a seroma (fluid collection), hernia, or muscle bulge, or weight gain. A complete exam and imaging as indicated (ultrasound) could help clarify things for you.

Peter A. Aldea, MD · Answer

Regarding: "Will Liposuction Swelling Become Chronic?   I had liposuction procedure done 8 months ago, and my lower abdomen still swells during the day not as much when I just wake up but doesn't take long for it happen as soon as I stand up. I'm so worried that becomes a chronic condition, it is very frustrating."

	I do not mean to worry you but I have been practicing Cosmetic Surgery for a while and I have never had a Liposuction patient who had such symptoms this far after surgery. Chronologically, the condition is chronic. You need to be examined to make sure you do not have a chronic seroma.

Genevieve MacDonald, MD (retired) · Answer

Usually the swelling from liposuction goes away within 3-6 months. The abdomen seems to be slower in resolving and, occasionally, individuals can get chronic swelling. I agree with Dr. Brown. A complete exam and imaging could definitely help clarify the cause of underlying symptoms.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.

	Hard to tell exactly what the problem is from your description.  Unfortunately, it is unlikely to go away after 8 months.  So it may be, as you say, chronic.

Will Liposuction Swelling Become Chronic?

Answers (6)

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