Swelling and Bumpy Appearance After Neck Liposuction

Question

I had neck Liposuction done 3 weeks ago (tumescent procedure), and although I see a major improvment with the double chin I had, it's still lumpy around that area and just a bit swollen. Because of this swelling/bumpy appearance, it still looks like I have a double chin (small one). Is this normal, and how long before I see the final results? About 2 days ago it looked like it was getting better, but today I see it a bit more swollen. Is that normal too?

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Maximum swelling is usually within about three to five days after your surgery, and the majority of it along with bruising goes away in two to three weeks. You may feel some firmness, though, for a few months afterward. You can assess your results at three to four months after surgery.Massage can start at a week or ten days after surgery. You can use your hands or a soft paint roller for about 20 minutes once or twice a day.

Michael A. Bogdan, MD, MBA, FACS · Answer

Dear Saint,
Don't worry!  You are only 3 weeks out from the procedure, and it is very normal to have asymmetric areas of "firmness" under the skin at this point.  I warn all of my neck lipo patients that their neck skin will feel somewhat numb and "woody" (meaning firm) for several months after surgery.  The liposuction removed fat from below the skin surface.  No matter how good your surgeon was, there will always be small areas of bleeding (tiny hematomas that you won't see as bruising, but rather feel as lumps), and there will be some scar tissue wherever the cannula passed.  If you watch the scars on the out side of your body, you will notice they get thicker for the first 2 months after surgery, and then will settle down.  This is the normal healing process, and the same thing is happening on the inside.  The tight scar tissue on the inside will contract (which improves the result), and then get soft.  Those little bumps should reabsorb over several months.  I tell all my patients not to judge the final result until 6 months have passed, at which time we get the post op photos.
Dr. B

George J. Beraka, MD (retired) · Answer

Hi.

	You might have a fluid collection (seroma) that needs to be aspirated, or irregular swelling that can respond to lymphatic drainage massage. Or you might need a touch up in a few months. But definitely see your surgeon promptly.

Richard P. Rand, MD, FACS (retired) · Answer

There is still swelling in your result.  Time and gentle massage should help.  Go back to your doctor and have them discuss their recommendations with you.

Swelling and Bumpy Appearance After Neck Liposuction

Answers (4)

Answer: You should massage and give it time

Answer: You should massage and give it time

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Swelling and Bumpy Appearance After Neck Liposuction

Answers (4)

Answer: You should massage and give it time

Answer: You should massage and give it time

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Everything you need to know about Liposuction

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