How Long Does It Take to Completely Recover from Liposuction?

Question

I had HIPS, INNER AND OUTER THIGHS AND KNEE liposuction 2 weeks ago. I had a lot of swell and bruising. I had lot of pain in first week,my doctor told me I can come back to my normal life after 1 week, but i still have pain. every night I have to take 2 TRAMADOL 50 MG. my body has sore, its hard to sit and sleep for me but when I walk I feel better. my left leg is numb also my right knee is numb too , I can not come back to my work I am very worried,should I take my pain relief after 2 weeks?

Dhaval M. Patel, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals. First off, you should expect swelling to go on as long as a few months. Everything gets better over time and you will gradually see changes in your body. It is important to be patient because you really won't see your full result until 6-12 months. Just remember to follow all your surgeons post care instructions. Best of luck!Dhaval M. Patel Double board certifiedPlastic surgeonHoffman EstatesBarringtonOakbrookChicago

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. It’s too early to comment over the result. First couple of weeks after the surgery you can back to work and couple of weeks later your permanent recovery will start. It’s possible to see some major changes in Liposuction results till the end of 12 months recovery. I wish you all the best.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

This may just take a little longer for you, but a good physical examination by your plastic surgeon would be advised.

George Bitar, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.  Unfortunately pain after liposuction can extend beyond two weeks depending on the extent of the liposuction.  One week recovery is not typical.  The numbness you are experiencing is normal and should subside in about 12 weeks.    Compression therapy helps with your comfort.  It is normal to still require pain medications.  Best wishes on your recovery.

Adam David Lowenstein, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very unusual to be fully recovered from liposuction only 1 week after surgery, and some pain at 2 weeks can be normal. Numbness is unquestionably normal and may persist for some time still. If your pain does not subside I would recommend followup with your surgeon, but I recommend holding off from strenuous activity for 3 weeks after liposuction.

Barry L. Eppley, MD, DMD · Answer

I find that most doctor's estimates of recovery from liposuction are way underestimated. Significant discomfort and bruising can be present for several weeks after the procedure. Complete resolution of all swelling can take several months. What you are experiencing sounds very normal, just unexpected on your part.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Usually liposuction is fairly benign with some soreness. Pain at two weeks is a bit unusual, I would follow closely with your surgeon.

James Shaw, MD · Answer

Fat will generally take longer to heal than other body tissues
	
		The healing process goes through phases
	
		Initial watery swelling is usually gone by 2 or 3 weeks
	
		Firm, rubbery swelling may take 2 or 3 months to resolve
	
		Skin tone should continue to improve and the final result will be seen after 6 months or more

How Long Does It Take to Completely Recover from Liposuction?

Answers (8)