After having smart lipo in the abdomen, is it normal to have a flat belly one day and bloated the next as if you never had lipo?

Question

I had smart lipo ten days ago. My belly was almost completely flat after the procedure but today it looks like I didn't get the procedure done at all so I'm freaking out. I know it takes a few months before I can see the final result but is this normal? One day it's flat, the next I look like I never had lipo. Also, I still can't feel my belly, is this normal? My doctor said I'm healing just fine but I like to hear different opinions. Thanks!

Marco A. Pelosi III, MD, FACOG, FACS · Answer

Swelling occurs after any type of lipo. It's a normal reaction to this type of surgery. It's best managed by wearing a sufficiently tight compression garment and professional massages on a regular basis in the first few weeks after the procedure.

Elliot M. Heller, MD · Answer

Yes this is completely normal and yes you can have some swelling in the belly for a couple of weeks, but if you want to confirm with your doctor feel free to.

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

Swelling is normal following a smart lipo procedure or any liposuction procedure, and the amount of swelling may vary from day to day. The most important thing at this point is to wear your compression garment and follow all of your doctor’s post-care instructions. Final results from liposuction may take up to six months to appear.

Earl Stephenson, Jr., MD, DDS, MBA · Answer

You can fluctuations in your contour due to swelling.  This is way a compression garment is important.  Keep your follow-up appointments to make sure that your change in contour is not due to some other causes.

Naveen Setty, MD · Answer

What you are describing so soon after your surgery is very normal.  Swelling can vary quite dramatically from one day to the next based on activity levels and the normal healing process. Most of that will start to settle after a few weeks and your final results will be seen at 3-6 months.  If you are concerned about the swelling, look in to options such as lymphatic massage.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

It is very common to have bruising and swelling for weeks to months after liposuction procedures.  What is most important is that you follow your surgeons post operative instructions and continue compression.  If you are concerned, lymphatic massage and Velashape or Venus Legacy treatments can be used to improve the swelling and help the skin tighten.  My patients start treatments right away and it improves the long term results.  Speak to your physician if you are concerned.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Paul J. Leahy, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Yes, I have many patients tell me that they experience that same fluctuation in the contour, even throughout the day sometimes. This process generally settles down between 6-12 weeks. Hang in there. Best wishes.

After having smart lipo in the abdomen, is it normal to have a flat belly one day and bloated the next as if you never had lipo?

Answers (7)

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