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How Soon Can I Have Another Liposuction?

I had liposuction last December. It is already March yet I have not seen any significant changes in my body. Sure, my tummy has flattened a bit but my clothes' size remain the same and the bulges are still there, particularly in my arms & thighs.

This is why I am considering another operation. Is this necessary? If so, how soon can I have another procedure done?

Doctor Answers 6

March 8th, 2009

Swelling after Liposuction

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It is not uncommon to see significant swelling after liposuction. This swelling can last for months, and is one of the reasons that I have my patients wear tight surgical garments for at least 2 months.

A good way to determine if you still have swelling is to follow your weight after your liposuction. If your weight goes up or stays the same after extensive liposuction, chances are that you are retaining excess fluid. I weigh my liposuction patients during every visit after surgery to follow their water retention. You can consider additional liposuction, but I would wait until the swelling is completely down--at least 8 to 12 months.

Daniel Reichner, MD


Newport Beach Plastic Surgeon
4.9 out of 5 stars 48 reviews

December 8th, 2016

Hidef liposuction revision in Los Angeles

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I would wait 3 months for swelling to resolve and then start a Hidef liposuction revision protocol that includes skin tightening, fibrous release, and liposculpture with lipocavitation. 

Best, 

Dr. Karamanoukian

Los Angeles

Learn more: http://www.kareplasticsurgery.com/revision/revision-liposuction/

Raffy Karamanoukian, MD, FACS
February 8th, 2015

How Soon to Have Second Liposuction

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Thank you for your question. As a general rule, I recommend that my patients wait 3-6 months between liposuction procedures. This way you have the opportunity to do a limited enhancement of the first areas treated if necessary. In addition, you will have fully recovered from the first surgery. By three months you should be seeing some improvement. You should discuss your concerns with your surgeon. Good luck.

Learn more: http://stevenringlermd.com/body-procedures-grand-rapids/surgical/liposuction/

Steven L. Ringler, MD, FACS
July 18th, 2010

Can do repeat liposuction in 6 months

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Wait a full six months before more liposuction.  And go to another plastic surgeon.  This will improve your chances of a better result.

George J. Beraka, MD (retired)
Manhattan Plastic Surgeon

June 21st, 2009

Swelling may still be present.

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Generally I advise individuals to wait a minimum of 4 and preferably 6 months prior to undergoing a secondary liposuciton procedure.

Discuss the volume of fat that was remoeved with your intitial procedure. It is likely that you did have significant fat removed but are still experiencing residual swelling.

Otto Joseph Placik, MD
October 16th, 2010

Liposuction redo

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Repeat liposuction can be performed in some instances. This requires a full exam. Uusally I wait at least 6 months or longer to do this.

Steven Wallach, MD

These answers are for educational purposes and should not be relied upon as a substitute for medical advice you may receive from your physician. If you have a medical emergency, please call 911. These answers do not constitute or initiate a patient/doctor relationship.