Still lots of swelling; how long does it take to see final results?

Question

So, I am now 5 weeks out from a 360 body lift. The front of my abdomen is swollen, but, it seems to be improving, however, my love handles and back are still retaining lots of fluid and are swollen. I know the dr. had to unfurl my skin in that area and he did a significant amount of liposuction. I assume that this is normal swelling due to those factors, however, I am worried as my pre surgery pants all do not fit. How long does it take to see final results? 6 months to a year?

Aldo Guerra, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question and congratulations on achieving your body lift surgery. I advice my patients that it takes 18 months to achieve the final appearance with an extensive procedure like a body lift. Everyone is different and it is probably best to seek the advice of your surgeon for the most accurate answers in your case. Best wishes, Dr. ALDO

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Dear CFISHER73 in Nashville,
Thank you for your question about the duration of swelling and when to expect the final results following your 360 circumferential lower body lift.
Swelling Post-Surgery:
Typically, the majority of swelling after a 360 circumferential lower body lift tends to subside within 6 to 8 weeks.
If your surgery included liposuction, expect the swelling to last a bit longer, potentially up to 8 to 12 weeks.
Impact of Complications:
Any complications like wound openings or infections can prolong the swelling and healing process.
Managing Swelling:
Wearing a medical-grade compression garment continuously is crucial for managing swelling and aiding the healing process.
Lymphatic massage can also be beneficial in reducing swelling, especially if you've had liposuction.
In conclusion, while the bulk of swelling generally diminishes within a couple of months, allowing for a clearer view of the surgical results, be prepared for a longer recovery period if liposuction was part of your procedure or if you've experienced any complications.
Wishing you a smooth and steady recovery.
Sincerely,

Steve Merten, FRACS - Account Suspended · Answer

You are right, it takes at least 6 months for the swelling to mostly resolve, but really even longer for the complete result.Be patient and you should be able to start increasing your activity and exercise soon, with the ok of your surgeon.Good luck, Dr Steve Merten, Sydney Plastic Surgeon

Don W. Griffin, MD · Answer

After liposuction and a circumferential body lift, it will take at least 3 to 6 months for all of your swelling to subside, and it could take up to a year in some patients. You are probably still swollen at this point, so I wouldn't be too concerned about how your clothes fit. Continue to follow up with your surgeon to get the best results.

Joshua Cooper, MD, FACS · Answer

Of all the operations we perform for body contouring, the lower body lift has the most swelling (edema) associated with it. Also, the lower body lift operation has the potential to have a major and hugely positive impact on our major weight loss patients' lives!It can take one year until all of the swelling dissipates after a lower body lift. Hang in there, be patient, and definitely run your concerns by your plastic surgeon. Thanks for sharing!

Still lots of swelling; how long does it take to see final results?

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Answer: Still lots of swelling after body lift: how long does it take to see final results?

Answer: Still lots of swelling after body lift: how long does it take to see final results?

Answer: When Will I See My Final Results after Lower Body Lift? #lowerbodylift

Answer: When Will I See My Final Results after Lower Body Lift? #lowerbodylift

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Still lots of swelling; how long does it take to see final results?

Answers (5)

Answer: Still lots of swelling after body lift: how long does it take to see final results?

Answer: Still lots of swelling after body lift: how long does it take to see final results?

Answer: When Will I See My Final Results after Lower Body Lift? #lowerbodylift

Answer: When Will I See My Final Results after Lower Body Lift? #lowerbodylift

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Body Lift

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