How Long Does It Take for Bloating After Liposuction to Go Away?

Question

I had liposuction of my flanks, abdomen, and lower back done two days ago, and have noticed my legs and ankles have gotten very puffy. is this normal? How long should it take for this bloating to go down? Is it possible that this is not bloating at all and fat has just transfered to other parts of my body?? thank you!

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.

	The swelling is part of the healing process.  I ask my liposuction patients to wear a compression garment for 4 weeks post op surgery to help with the swelling.  The swelling can take months to subside and even longer for skin to &ldquo;redrape".  At that point you will see the final results. 

	Best Wishes.

J. Jason Wendel, MD, FACS · Answer

It takes a minimum of three to six months for the swelling to resolve after liposuction in the areas liposuctioned.  It takes almost a year for all of the swelling to resolve. The swelling in your ankles is likely a natural response to surgery.  If you have pain, discomfort or more swelling in one leg versus the other, return to see your surgeon immediately to make sure that you do not have a blood clot in your leg.

Garrett Jones, DO · Answer

The duration for bloating after liposuction to subside can vary among individuals. In general, it may take a few weeks to several months for swelling and bloating to diminish. However, it’s essential to follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and attend follow-up appointments for guidance of your recovery progress.

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Swelling, or bloating as you phrase it, is a given after liposuction. What you are seeing at your ankles and lower legs may be related to a constrictive or tight garment which is impeding the fluid outflow from these areas. You should discuss this situation with your surgeon. some modifications may be able to be made. 

	It can take several weeks for much of the swelling to subside and up to one year for it to maximally resolve.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Swelling after liposuction is normal.  This usually is worst during the first week or two and then subsides over the first few months. Acitivity may make it worse.

How Long Does It Take for Bloating After Liposuction to Go Away?

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How Long Does It Take for Bloating After Liposuction to Go Away?

Answers (7)

Answer: Swelling in legs and feet after liposuction

Answer: Swelling in legs and feet after liposuction

Answer: Swelling and liposuction

Answer: Swelling and liposuction

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