I'm 7 weeks post lipo. Is it normal to feel sharp shooting pains and lots of itching?

Question

I have lots of itching every area that I had except abdomen. Lots of itching on my back, arms, legs and flanks. I also have lots of sharp shooting pain in the lipo areas especially my arms and back. Is that ok?

Joseph L. Kiener, MD, FACS · Answer

The presence of itchiness and pain are signs of the return of innervatin to your skin.  Most patients complain of numbness for the first few weeks following liposuction.  Seems to me you are right on course.  Regards.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Itching is a fairly common complaint after liposuction. By two months I would expect there to be very little pain. Liposuction assisted by a laser or ultrasound has a more complicated convalescence including more significant pain.

Stephen T. Greenberg, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question.  The itching sensation after a liposuction procedure is fairly common but the severity does vary from patient to patient.  Typically this uncomfortable sensation is the result of the nerves regenerating and take anywhere from a couple of weeks up to several months to subside entirely.  You should find that the severity of itching will improve day by day but I would recommend following up with your operating surgeon for a thorough evaluation because of the sharp pain that you describe.  Best of luck on your recovery!

Scott Chapin, MD, FACS · Answer

It is not
uncommon to experience itching post liposuction.  This is due to the nerves regenerating and
changes in sensations.  This should
resolve naturally over the course of a few months.  Medication such as gabapentin might be
helpful in the short term if your symptoms are disruptive enough.  If you are concerned I would recommend
speaking with your surgeon.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Commonly after liposuction, and due to swelling, there are changes in sensation. Commonly as the swelling subsides the sensations improve.

I'm 7 weeks post lipo. Is it normal to feel sharp shooting pains and lots of itching?

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Answer: Liposuction Recovery

Answer: Liposuction Recovery

Answer: Sensory issues

Answer: Sensory issues

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I'm 7 weeks post lipo. Is it normal to feel sharp shooting pains and lots of itching?

Answers (6)

Answer: Liposuction Recovery

Answer: Liposuction Recovery

Answer: Sensory issues

Answer: Sensory issues

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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.