I am 170 pounds and 5'4". I just had 2.5 liters of fat removed from my flanks, stomach and bra line.

Question

I'm 5 days post op and in swell hell! I'm freaking out....is this even enough to make a difference in my shape. I realize losing weight is up to me but even when I lose weight " I am freaking out that after all of this discomfort and money it will be a huge waste! Is that enough to get rid of bra line and flanks? He said one full liter came from my belly.... that would mean 1.5 liters from flanks and bra line.

Christian Subbio, MD · Answer

It takes months and months for the swelling from liposuction to go down.  People have a misconception that liposuction is a quick and easy procedure because it sounds less invasive than a tummy tuck.  But, the procedure is actually quite traumatic to the tissues under the skin.  Surgeons pass a small metal tube suctioning the fat back and forth thousands of times during the procedure, and this causes trauma to the underlying tissues.  Not only that, but we inject liters of fluid as well prior to suctioning.  This all translates into significant swelling which, only five days out, will be quite significant, and take several months to dissipate.  Typically I have my patients wear compression binders to help speed the resolution.  Talk with your surgeon about this, and try to be patient, it will take some time to see the significant difference from 2.5 liters having been suctioned.Best of luck!Dr. SubbioBoard-Certified Plastic SurgeonNewtown Square/Philadelphia, PA

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

You should be getting lymphatic massage, hyperbaric oxygen at this time to speed up the healing process as well have very tight compression.  Results will be noticeable in 3-6 months but swelling will go down in a few weeks when you will notice some of your shape taking form.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Gerald Minniti, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello,If done correctly, you should see a change to your contours.  It doesn't translate into much weight loss, or inches removed, but should cause a change in shape. Best of luck!

Fernando Colon, MD · Answer

Usually I recommend any required weight lossbefore surgery. You are early in your post operative recovery.In a few weeks you should see a difference.Wish you a satisfactory result.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

Swelling will camouflage the benefits of liposuction in the early postoperative period. This will improve on a day-to-day basis. 2500 cc of fat removal will translate into a significant difference.

I am 170 pounds and 5'4". I just had 2.5 liters of fat removed from my flanks, stomach and bra line.

Answers (7)

Answer: 170 lbs, 5'4 Height post SAL

Answer: 170 lbs, 5'4 Height post SAL

Answer: You will see significant improvement if two and half liters of liposuction was performed on your torso.

Answer: You will see significant improvement if two and half liters of liposuction was performed on your torso.

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.

I am 170 pounds and 5'4". I just had 2.5 liters of fat removed from my flanks, stomach and bra line.

Answers (7)

Answer: 170 lbs, 5'4 Height post SAL

Answer: 170 lbs, 5'4 Height post SAL

Answer: You will see significant improvement if two and half liters of liposuction was performed on your torso.

Answer: You will see significant improvement if two and half liters of liposuction was performed on your torso.

Browse related questions

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.