After 360 lipo is it common to be swollen more on one side? (Photos)

Question

My left side of my abdomen seems more swollen than the right is that okay?

Ryan Neinstein, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Thanks for the question, the sides of our bodies almost always heal a bit differently, it can have to do with which side you sleep on and thus have more swelling on one side vs less swelling on the other, should be totally fine!

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question.
The swelling after any surgical procedure is not symmetric or uniform. If, however one of the lower legs is exceptionally swollen you should see your Plastic Surgeon right away. Asymmetric swelling of the abdomen is not a major concern at this time. If the swelling increases in one area however, you should see your Plastic Surgeon because of the possibility of a seroma. All The Best !

Joyce C. Chen, MD, MPH, FACS · Answer

Thank you so much for your photos and questions!  Yes, it is normal to have one side of your body more swollen or bruised after most types of surgery, including liposuction.  Swelling can also persist for months after liposuction.   Hope this helps...best of luck!
Sincerely,
Joyce C. Chen, MD, MPH, FACS

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Yes, swelling can be asymmetrical and can last 3-6 months after Smart Lipo. Compression along with lymphatic massage may give improvement. It really is too soon to tell what your final results will be.be. For best results with treatments like Lipo 360, I recommend adding a combination of radiofrequency treatments like Vanquish, Venus Legacy, Exilis Ultra for skin tightening and with Z wave/Cellutone for skin smoothing. In order to get the best results, a VASER HI DEF procedure is needed to get more contouring and definition. See an expert for a formal consultation. Best, Dr. Emer

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Thickass_,it is not uncommon to be more swollen on one side. I would suggest you to keep following your surgeon's instructions and wear compression garments. In case you are concerned, you can always discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon. Daniel Barrett, MD, MHA, MS 
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery  
Member, Am. Society of Plastic Surgery

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

Yes. Asymmetrical healing is totally normal. Most of us use one side more than the other (typically the side of our dominant hand). As the swelling resolves, the asymmetry should dissipate. For now, be patient and kind to yourself as your body heals. Best of luck.

Kenton Schoonover, MD · Answer

It is very common for swelling to vary from one side to another.  Unfortunately, it just takes patience in order to see the final results from liposuction.  By the end of the first month, I can usually start to see some nice results, but it takes 4-6 months to really have a final result.  Don't worry about asymmetry at this point in time.  I'm sure that you will continue to see improvement for some time yet.

Frederick G. Weniger, MD, FACS, MBA · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is very common to swell more on one side than the other. Best advice is to give it time and be patient while you are in the post operative period. Follow up with your surgeon and discuss any concerns that you may have.

David Kahng, MD · Answer

Thank you for your excellent question.  Asymmetrical swelling after 360 liposuction is very common and may result from laying on one side preferentially. It is very common for bodies to heal differently from side to side and the swelling may vary from day to day based on activity and sodium intake.  It is important to regularly follow up with your surgeon so that he or she may monitor your progress and rule out any fluid collections such as hematomas or seromas.  Best, Dr. Kahng.

Steven Turkeltaub, MD · Answer

Having asymmetrical swelling following circumferential liposuction is quite common. It can develop for a variety of reasons including sleeping on one side. This can even fluctuate from day to day and is more significant early on in the healing process. One thing that you want to make sure of is in the rare situation that there is no seroma or hematoma present. This is something that your surgeon can determine.Steven Turkeltaub, MD

After 360 lipo is it common to be swollen more on one side? (Photos)

Answers (13)

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