Is applying ice still useful for swelling three weeks after facial liposuction?

Question

Liposuction jaw and cheeks 3 weeks ago. After 2 weeks, looked almost good for a few days then the residual swelling decided to increase and I look puy jowly 90% of the time with brief rare moments when it goes down. My Dr. said lymphatic massage is not good for face after liposuction and that I should apply ice. Is applying ice still useful at this juncture for swelling?

Kenneth Hughes, MD · Answer

Three weeks after liposuction there is frequently swelling, tightness, and numbness.  This should improve over 3 to 6 months.  Ice in the first few days may help, but it has not been proven to help long term. Best to follow your PS's post-operative protocols.

Hooman Khorasani, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. I agree that ice can help and I agree that lymphatic massage is not the best option.   All swelling will resolve with time, however it may take several months to completely resolve. Some adjunctive treatments that may help include hyperbaric oxygen, kybella and ultherapy.  I hope this helps.

Kirk Moore, MD · Answer

Icing is beneficial for most surgical procedures that cause swelling and pain, it is normal to ice up to 6 weeks or more.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

To speed up healing, you can try adding hyperbaric oxygen, lymphatic massage, venus legacy or exilis radiofrequency treatments. To improve final results, we will often do a kybella and ultherapy about 4-6 weeks after neck liposuction to get more of an outcome. See an expert. Best, Dr. Emer

Robert M. Tornambe, MD · Answer

Victoria.   I appreciate your concern, however sometimes liposuction of the face and neck can take longer to subside because the blood supply to the face is so vigorous. At this stage ice may help a little bit, and I agree that lymphatic massage is not a good option. All swelling will resolve, however it may take an additional 1 to 3 months. Good luck.

Darren Smith, MD, FACS · Answer

Hi, thanks for your question. I probably wouldn't expect ice to help that much three weeks after a procedure. However, don't be disheartened that you don't see your final results yet. Swelling can take 3-6 months to really work itself out after liposuction. Hang in there!

Robert L. Kraft, MD, FACS · Answer

Generally, swelling reaches its peak at 72 hours post procedure and then dissipates slowly over time.  Watch your salt intake as this may be a factor. Ice cannot hurt but I do not believe that it will generate systemic improvement. Best wishes.

Tania Medina de Garcia, MD · Answer

Hello dear!!
Thanks for the question and provided information as well.
You are still early on the healing process, it can take up to six months to see your final results, so please be patient. At the stage you are in, inflammation and discomfort are very normal.
If the ice reliefs the swelling, you can continue to use it, without any problem.
If you have any concerns, please follow up close with your plastic surgeon.
Good luck :)