Why am I so swollen 3 months after lipo?

Question

i got a BBL on 10/9, it's almost January and I'm swollen in my abdomen and thighs, where the fat was removed and and really bloated in general, will it go away?

Charles A. Messa III, MD, FACS · Answer

It is very common to have some degree of postoperative swelling for up to 6 months after liposuction depending on the amount of fat removed and the area that was treated. Bloating my be related to fluid retention and bowel function. It is important to gradually increase your physical activity and consider reducing salt intake. If you are not moving your bowels normally or experiencing abdominal pain or distention you should contact you surgeon for further treatment recommendations.

Jason Emer, MD · Answer

Swelling can last for up to a year if really aggressive.  massage, ultrasound, and radiofrequency treatments -- like velashape or venus treatments -- help with decreasing this as well as diuretics.  I suggest speaking to your physician or getting an opinion from a body contouring expert.  Best, Dr. Emer.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

It is not uncommon to still be swollen after 3 months.  If you are concerned, best to see your surgeon for follow-up.

Kenneth D. Christman, MD · Answer

You should not be swollen 3 months after lipo.  Did you have a tummy tuck, or some other procedure as well?

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

See if you can take a picture to show us so that we can give you a more accurate answer.In general, at three months, the majority of swelling from liposuction should be gone. That said, you often see changes from three to six months, though it's usually less. Some people may not be candidates for great results from liposuction while others are. This often has to do with lining up the correct treatment with the correct diagnoses.For example, a woman who has had pregnancies, may be a little overweight, has mild muscle separation and/or has some deep or gut fat (visceral fat) and loose skin will generally never look that much better from liposuction.On the other hand, someone who has tight skin, tight muscles and a thick layer of fat between their skin and muscles but is otherwise fit and not overweight should have a remarkable change.If a patient is not a good candidate for liposuction, they will most likely be disappointed with the results and not see much of a change. That can even be perceived as looking larger than before, especially if there is still some swelling left.I have no idea if this pertains to you or not without at least seeing pictures or doing an exam. Ideally, looking at before-and-after pictures would be the best. Best of luck,Mats Hagstrom, M.D.

Paul Silverstein, MD (retired) · Answer

I cannot offer a suggestion without photos (preferably before and after surgery).  Best bet is to get your doctor's opinion.  You may need more lipo, or you may have gained weight.  Lipo does not cause bloating, but constipation from pain pills can.

Why am I so swollen 3 months after lipo?

Answers (6)

More Liposuction Questions

Can I have liposuction of the jawline if I had jaw surgery 9 years ago?

Does my stomach look normal for 8 weeks post op? (Photo)

Hanging skin after arm lipo?

Will my mons pubis improve? Should I get it liposuctioned again? Any other treatment to improve my results? (Photo)

Should I still have swelling 4 weeks after liposuction of the saddle bags?

Lipo on lower/inner butt? Can lipo fix this or only a butt lift- scar in crease? (Photo)

WE SEND PRETTY
EMAILS