Is it possible I messed up future results by not sleeping as directed after lipo?

Question

Hi everyone, On December 31st, I underwent liposuction on my upper&lower abs, flanks & hips. I'm now four days post-op and I am worried. Due to intense pain in my lower back, last night and the night before, I slept on my side. The nights before that, I hadn't been elevating my legs. Unfortunately, I only just re-read my post-op instruction sheet, which clearly instructs that I should sleep on my back with my legs elevated and now I am terrified that I have damaged any future results. Advise?

Louis DeLuca, MD · Answer

It is highly doubtful that your sleeping pattern will have any negative effect on the results of your liposuction.  Post-op recommendations for how to position your body after surgery is to minimize the amount of swelling you develop in the treated area and to help the healing process to proceed more smoothly.In your case, you may have a bit more swelling but your final result should be unchanged

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

I would very much doubt that you have "damaged" the results.  Failing to keep your legs elevated could result in a bit more swelling but nothing permanent.  Given the extent of your surgery and your concerns, you should reach out to your plastic surgeon for support.  Best wishes.

Elan B. Singer, MD · Answer

Hi Chelseav,While it is unlikely that you caused any permanent damage to your abdomen by sleeping on your side following liposuction, it is always advisable to speak to your surgeon if you have any concerns after undergoing surgery.  Your pain, specifically, is what needs to be addressed.  Good luck!

Is it possible I messed up future results by not sleeping as directed after lipo?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Is it possible I messed up future results by not sleeping as directed after lipo?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Liposuction

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.