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?
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.
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
Web reference: http://www.kareplasticsurgery.com/revision/revision-liposuction/
Web reference: http://stevenringlermd.com/body-procedures-grand-rapids/surgical/liposuction/
Wait a full six months before more liposuction. And go to another plastic surgeon. This will improve your chances of a better result.
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.
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.
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.
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