How long until you actually see the weight difference on the scale after lipo?

Question

I got 2 liters removed but I do not see that reflected on the scale yet, how long does it take to see that amount reflected on the scale?

Miguel Delgado, MD · Answer

You may not see your final results from liposuction for 6 months up to a year after surgery. Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure but more for sculpting so you may not see a big difference on the scale.

Peter N. Butler, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, thank you for your question.  You may find it takes 6 months or more until the area stops swelling throughout the day.  Increased activity will also cause extra fluid accumulation in the early recovery period.

Ricardo Vega, MD · Answer

Hello, thank you for your inquiry. Congratulations on your surgery. It can take up to 3-6 months because you are still swollen. Be patient, best of luck!

Farbod Esmailian, MD · Answer

It generally takes about 4 months before you can really appreciate your results.  However, your weight on the scale will likely be unchanged, especially right after the surgery when you are swollen and you body is holding on to the fluid.Even at the 4 month period, the scale is not going to change much.  Liposuction is more for body contouring and you should be able to see the difference from your before and after when you are 4 months out.Hope that helps.

Salih Onur Basat, MD, EBOPRAS · Answer

Hello , and thanks for your question.
All patient want to lose weight early after the liposuction operation. But generally they observe stable weight or weight gain after the operation. Because during the operation surgeon infiltrate the fluid to take the fat easily and without bleeding. Because if this infiltration and surgical edema patient gain weight after the operation. If the patient takes enough fluid and move enough , this edema resolve slightly and 2-3 months later patient can observe weight loss. During this period  if the patient restrict salt intake , this process takes less time.

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Mgy2018 I am understand your confusion, however liposuction is not a weight-loss tool. It is most helpful with regard to removing fat from areas of the body unresponsive to diet and exercise. While you will not see a difference on the scales, you should see improvement with regard to contour. Discuss your concerns with your board-certified plastic surgeon. Good luck.

Daniel Barrett, MD · Answer

Dear Mgy2018,
liposuction is not a weight loss surgery  but you will most likely see some weight changes. If you are still in early postoperative period, you might have some swelling. Once the swelling, resolves, you should be able to see the final results. 
Daniel Barrett, MD
Certified, American Board of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Plastic Surgery
Member, American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery

Alex Campbell, MD · Answer

Thanks for your question. Healing after liposuction is usually pretty straight forward.  There is a process of swelling and bruising that peaks at 3 days after surgery and then undergoes the first stage of major resolution in the first 2 weeks after surgery.  The lateer phase of healing takes place over the 2-3 months after surgery where everything really settles and softens.  It is after this time that we are getting close to the final result, though this varies patient to patient.

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

You will likely only lose a few pounds from the liposuction which is not advertised as a weight-loss procedure. The purpose of liposuction is to remove the fat from problem areas in your body, thereby contouring your physique.  You should notice changes in inches once the swelling has dissipated.Kenneth Hughes, MD, ABPS Board Certified Plastic SurgeonLos Angeles, CA

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!
Thanks for the picture and provided information as well.
Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure, but a contouring one. To achieve the best results, and to have the safest surgery, it is best if you reach your goal weight before the procedure(s).It can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. Please, follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)

How long until you actually see the weight difference on the scale after lipo?

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