Is it normal to be bigger a week and a half after Smart Lipo than you were before?

Question

I had my check up last week and was told to only wear my garment for another 4 or 5 days well I decided not to wear it today as I was told and I feel bigger now than before and my scale even confirms it. I was told I have a protruding abdomen and to have realistic expectations I believe I do but other than the fact I don't have the rolling skin when sitting I feel like I'm 7 months pregnant. Is this normal what should I do? I know I wont be flat but I didnt want to look pregnant all of a sudden

Justin Yovino, MD, FACS · Answer

It's very typical to go through fluctuations in size during the early healing phase. Usually it appears that you are smaller when you first remove your garment compared to 7-10 days after the procedure. I find this is due to the initial continuous compression verses the intermittent (garment off during showers and washing of the garment) compression. Also, after the first few days you become more active and this can increase your swelling. It usually takes 2-3 weeks for you to start truly appreciating your results. It takes a few months to really remodel and soften-up for after photos.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Swelling and bruising from liposuction can last many weeks, and the total healing process takes 3-6 months to fully heal.  You are in the early phases of healing and if you are worried about your result you should contact your physician.  My patients wear compression at night many weeks after their 2 weeks of constant use.  I suggest you do the same.  I wish you the best, Dr. Emer.

Robert Kratschmer, MD · Answer

It is very common to expect to see fast results, especially after advanced treatments like Smartlipo Triplex.  Swelling takes time to resolve. The best thing to do is wear your compression garment as much as possible for a few weeks and evaluate your results in 3-6 months.

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. It is normal to be
swollen two weeks post procedure, you will be swollen for a few weeks and this
will eventually subside. It is important to wear your compression garment to
help control swelling that may occur. Please consult with your surgeon to make
sure you are healing properly.

Darryl J. Blinski, MD · Answer

Something is wrong in my opinion. SmartLipo is one of the faster healing lipo types. Thus if you are swelling more and more than seek IN PERSON medical attention...

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is quite common to have post-op swelling that can make you look bigger after surgery. Give it is a few months to settle down, or if concerned discuss with your surgeon.

Windell C. Davis-Boutte, MD (license suspended) · Answer

Having done thousands of SmartLipo cases on women, one thing is for sure.....Swelling tends to maximize over the first 2 to 3 weeks.  Factors that help improve it are modest continuous compression (for several months), low salt diet, plenty of water...and PATIENCE. Allow another 3 weeks for improvement to be noted.

Is it normal to be bigger a week and a half after Smart Lipo than you were before?

Answers (7)

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