Bigger stomach 4 weeks post lipo?

Question

Hi! I know im still swollen but is it possible that my tummy is getting bigger instead of getting smaller 4 weeks post lipo? im not wearing my compression garment anymore and I feel that my tummy is bigger. paid so much for this and im so stressed that it will go into waste. I did my arms 8 mons ago and i loved the results! its so much different this time with my tummy! :(

Gary Lawton, MD, FACS · Answer

It is normal to swell to a certain extent in the areas that surround the liposuction because of local movement of the fluid.  It its also common to have generalized swelling because of the fluid shift that is occurring globally.  All of this will resolve.  Some in the first few weeks, some over 6 months.It is too early to judge the outcome.  You may be doing too much.  If you exercise and the swelling gets worse, you need to give it more time to heal.  If you can do cardio with no additional swelling, then burn calories and be patient.  It will take at least 6 months to see the final results.The compression garment should be tight enough so that you feel like you have something on, but not so tight that it hurts.  It should be smooth and even with no ribs bones or seems that leave indentations in the skin.  If you are swelling then the garment is either too loose or you are doing too much.  You might need a lighter garment to sleep in and a tighter garment for the daytime.  The garment should extend beyond the borders of the treated areas in every direction.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Fourweeks is very soon after your liposuction. You are still swollen. Itwill take at least another month or two before you see your finalresults. Massage, hyperbaric oxygen, RF treatments help resolve the swelling. If you are concerned,please speak to the expert who performed your liposuction. Best, Dr.Emer

Austin Hayes, MD · Answer

Congratulations on your recent surgery! It's too early to stress! Results of liposuction will not be seen for several months. Final results are not seen for 6-9 months. You're still swollen and that's why you can't see any improvement. Make sure to stay in close contact with your surgeon, so that they can address any concerns that you may have.

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for sharing your question and congratulations on your liposuction.  It would be very common to still have some degree of swelling present after your procedure that is affecting your current results.  Without a series of photographs it is difficult to offer definite advice but in most cases the additional weight and size comes from tissue swelling that resolves spontaneously over the first few months.  Now that you are not wearing a compression garment, and your activity is increasing, it would not be uncommon to have some recent increase in size.  hang in there!

Jaime S. Schwartz, MD, FACS · Answer

I appreciate your question.

Since there has been a change in your post op course, please contact your surgeon so he/she can examine you and recommend the most appropriate treatment plan at this time.

The best way to assess and give true advice would be an in-person exam.

Please see a board-certified plastic surgeon that specializes in aesthetic and restorative plastic surgery.

Best of luck!

Dr. Schwartz

Board Certified Plastic Surgeon

#RealSelf100Surgeon

Bigger stomach 4 weeks post lipo?

Answers (9)