"Pins and Needles" feeling in legs and ankles after lipo on flanks, is this normal?

Question

I'm 3 weeks post-op lipo on the flanks and lower abs. I knew there would be a tingling, "pins and needles" feeling after lipo but I thought it would be localized in the lipo areas. I do have that sensation there, but I also have tingling on my ankles and legs. Is this normal where regeneration may be felt in other parts of the body? or are these signs of other troubling conditions (i.e. emoblism or blood clot)

William T. Stoeckel, MD · Answer

The pins and needles sensation is a common phenomenon described after liposuction surgery. It typically is caused by nerves that have been irritated or injured during the procedure that are now repairing themselves or healing. The nerves that have been affected could be ones that traveled further down your leg which can explain why you have the sensation where you do. This is not a typical symptom described by someone having issues with an embolism. My concern level would be very low for a DVT, but if you have any other symptoms, you should have your surgeon examine you to make certain.

Marwan R. Khalifeh, MD · Answer

It is normal to have pins and needles zings and shooting pains following this procedure.Black and blues are also normal if it feels
like there is fluid below the black and blue area, it may be a hematoma, a
small collection of blood. If it is just a bruise, it will go away in a couple
of weeks. Bruising usually migrates inferiorly, turns yellow, and then
resolves.

Consult your surgeon, trust his advice, and be
patient.

Vincent N. Zubowicz, MD · Answer

The feeling of "pins and needles" is referred to as a paresthesia. This is the sign of nerve function recovering in his normal after liposuction.

Jeremy Pyle, MD · Answer

The feeling you describe can be caused by different things in different areas. It is likely that you are feeling this in the areas treated with liposuction because of healing in the nerves of that area. This is a very typical observation after lipo. In your legs and ankles, however, this could be do to persistent swelling in these areas.  Pins and needles feelings are commonly a part of that symptom as well. Because it is unlikely that the nerves to your ankles were injured with standard liposuction, my best guess is the swelling.Best,Dr. Pyle

Bruce E. Katz, MD · Answer

After Smartlipo it is
normal to have a tingling sensation for a few weeks, this feeling will
eventually subside. In the meantime, continue to wear your compression garment
and follow up with your surgeon. Best of luck in your recovery.

"Pins and Needles" feeling in legs and ankles after lipo on flanks, is this normal?

Answers (5)