Pain exercising after liposuction

Question

I am 4 weeks post traditional liposuction in abs and flanks. I had 1350 CC removed. I've resumed modified physical activities but cannot do anytime of plank or abdominal work without intense pain in flanks. Any suggestions on stretching, massage or types of workout that might help me slowly adapt without pain? I don't want to injure myself but love my boot camp classes and hope to find ways to slowly incorporate these exercises but not sure how. How long until pain fully resolves for most?

Ozge Ergun, MD · Answer

Thanks for the question. After a week your surgery area is totally healed and yes you can do gym and also do other activities. I wish you all the best.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

I have patients refrain from strenuous or vigorous exercise for 6 weeks, but your surgeon may have different recommendations.Kenneth Hughes, MD, Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Hayley Brown, MD, FACS · Answer

Discomfort after liposuction can persist for weeks in certain individuals. Sometimes it is related to skin sensitivity and sometimes it is related to scar tissue and residual swelling in treated areas. You are doing the right thing, starting slowly  and listening to your body with a gradual work up to be able to do what you were doing before the procedure. Everyone is a little bit different. Massage and stretching may help with areas of firmness or scar tissue. Be patient. If you have pain, stop what you are doing and try again in several days. Eventually you will be able to do what you love to do without pain. The time frame can vary from person to person. It may take several more weeks before you are completely pain free. You should also check with your plastic surgeon to make sure you are cleared for full exercise.

James A. Hoffman, MD · Answer

Most patients feel sore when they start back to exercise after Liposuction. Follow the recommendations of your surgeon. I tell my patients to start after 4-6 weeks and slowly build up over weeks to their previous level of exercise. Massage of those areas can also help swelling to resolve. Best Wishes

Sean Doherty, MD, FACS · Answer

I typically advise my patients to wait at least 6 weeks before returning to vigorous exercise. Since your surgeon knows how you are healing since he or she has seen you in person, it would be best to follow his or her recommendation. Ab work may need to be postponed for longer than 6 weeks. If something hurts, stop doing it. That's my best advice.

Pain exercising after liposuction

Answers (5)