Terrible Itching After Smart Lipo

Question

I am now 4 days post-Smart Lipo. Why is the itching so bad? Is it something internal or just the garments?

Marwan R. Khalifeh, MD · Answer

There can be several factors that attribute to itching after a procedure.  I always tell patients that a "crawling" feeling, itching and numbness are normal for several weeks after surgery.
	There is also the possibility that you are having a mild allergic reaction to one of the medications.  Make sure you let your surgeon know and see what they recommend.

Tyler Angelos, MD, FACS · Answer

A deep itch is very common after a liposuction procedure and it due to the nerves healing and "waking up" under the skin. It generally lasts for a few weeks and then subsides. Sometimes, the itch is on the surface of the skin caused by irritation from the compression garment especially if the garment has become wet. Removing and washing the garment if it becomes wet is recommended if this is the case.

Reza Tirgari, MD · Answer

This is one of the most common side effects after any type of lipo.  We warn clients that it may be experienced, although it is usually mild and self-limited.
The first approach is a topical cream with Benadryl, or maybe even Hydrocortisone twice a day.  A cool compress often helps and most client find this to be enough.
Anything worse than that should prompt you to follow up with your surgeon as soon as possible to avoid the possibility of anything worse.

Robert W. Benson, MD · Answer

By far the most common cause of itching after Smartlipo is the disruption of nerves during the procedure. This will resolve within a few days or weeks.  Irritation from the compression garment is also not uncommon. Less common is allergy to pain meds or antibiotics taken after surgery. These last two causes can be remedied by your doctor. The nerve disruption will heal on its own quickly.

Lawrence Osman, MD · Answer

If your skin is red and flaky in the area that you itch, the itching is probably from something external, and it could be the garment.  Itching after lipo is fairly common, though, and most patients find relief with Benadryl or an over-the-counter anti-itch cream/lotion like Sarna.

Terrible Itching After Smart Lipo

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Answer: Several causes

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Terrible Itching After Smart Lipo

Answers (7)

Answer: Several causes

Answer: Several causes

Answer: Itching after Smart Lipo

Answer: Itching after Smart Lipo

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Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Smart Lipo

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.