5 days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal? (Photo)

Question

I've read that many people go back to work after 4 days of having lipo on knees calves and ankles, but I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. I had the surgery done Friday and today is Wednesday. Should I be worried? Also, I feel like I'm more swollen when my feet are elevated. Is this normal?

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Swelling a lot in the lower legs is normal.  you should be getting lymphatic massage, hyperbaric oxygen and have double compression (furrow wrap or ace on outside of your compression).  It will take you weeks for the swelling to improve. If so severe, sometimes diuretics can also help.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Mitchel Goldman, MD · Answer

Swelling is very common after liposuction to any area of the body, and can take up to 6 months to fully resolve. Generally, patients are able to return to their daily activities by the time they are 5 days post-op, but swelling can vary from person to person. It appears that you may have a non-graduated compression that may be causing excessive swelling. In addition, deep vein thrombosis, may also cause severe swelling and needs to be evaluated quickly. I suggest visiting your surgeon for a follow-up to discuss your options.

Farah Naz Khan, MD · Answer

Remember that it's normal to have swelling after lipo. However, you seem to be very uncomfortable so best to check in with your operating surgeon so he or she can evaluate you and give you the proper advice. Good luck!!

Nelson Castillo, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question and photograph.  Swelling after liposuction is quite common for all locations, but especially in the lower legs as gravity will preferentially cause your legs to swell, similar to when your stockings or socks will leave imprints in your skin after a day of work.  Continue to keep your legs elevated, and make sure the garment you are wearing is not too tight as that may cause additional swelling to your feet.  Hope this helps

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Swelling after liposuction is normal. Walking like a penguin is not.  You  might want to check with your surgeon.

5 days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal?

Answer: days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal?

Answer: Leg swelling

Answer: Leg swelling

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5 days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal? (Photo)

Answers (7)

Answer: days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal?

Answer: days post op lipo on knees calves and ankles. I'm very swollen and walk like a penguin. Is this normal?

Answer: Leg swelling

Answer: Leg swelling

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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.