Liposuction weight gain or fluid retention?

Question

Hello! I had a quick question about liposuction! How long after the procedure do you experience weight gain? I understand that some weight gain is normal, but how long until you can distinguish it from being normal weight gain vs swelling/ fluid retention. Thank you!

Babak Moeinolmolki, MD, FACS · Answer

Weight gain is observed when you stop wearing your garments 24 hours a day; this usually happens at 1 week once you start getting complacent and will be most dramatic over the first month. From one month to three months you will gradually reduce your swelling and weight. I recommend that patients wait three to six months before investing into buying outfits etc.

Connie Hiers, MD, FACS · Answer

Weight gain from fluid used and swelling is seen right away with liposuction and can last up to 6 months.  The majority of excess fluid occurs in the first month.

Camille Cash, MD · Answer

You are correct that swelling is common and expected after surgery which often equates to a higher number on the scale.  Closely following your surgeon's instructions regarding compression, massage, and activity will help manage this.  Typically around 6 weeks post op the majority of the swelling will be resolved.

Mats Hagstrom, MD (license on probation) · Answer

My six weeks results are 75% done and if that time your weight should be close to what your true weight is. During the first 2 to 3 weeks you’ll be carrying extra weight because of edema. I suggest getting on the scale on a daily basis and you’ll know yourself when you’ve gotten to your pre-procedure weight. Depending on how much fat is removed, you should eventually end up being just a slightly lower than your preprocedure weight 
 Best,
Mats Hagstrom, MD

Joshua Jacobson, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Hi. Right after liposuction you will have a lot of swelling and water retention which may make you heavier. But after 4-6 weeks majority of that water should be gone.

William A. Ross, MD - Account Suspended · Answer

Thank you for your question. As a plastic surgeon that employs the full spectrum of liposuction treatments, this is a commonly asked question from my patients.
Temporary weight gain after liposuction can occur due to several factors. First, liposuction is a surgical procedure that involves the removal of excess fat cells from specific areas of the body. During the procedure, a solution containing fluids and medications is injected into the treatment area, which can temporarily increase fluid retention and lead to weight gain. Additionally, post-operative swelling and inflammation can contribute to a temporary increase in weight.
It is relatively common for patients to experience temporary weight gain after liposuction. Studies have shown that it can be a normal part of the healing process. A study published in Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery reported that patients can expect a temporary weight gain of around 2 to 4 pounds on average after liposuction, primarily due to fluid retention and post-operative swelling.
The good news is that this weight gain is usually temporary and resolves over time. The body gradually eliminates the excess fluid and reduces swelling during the recovery period. Typically, patients can expect the majority of swelling to subside within the first 2 weeks after the procedure. However, complete resolution of swelling and a return to baseline weight may take 2-3 months. It is important to follow your plastic surgeon's post-operative instructions, including wearing compression garments and engaging in light physical activity, to facilitate proper healing and reduce swelling. It is important to remember that you still reap the benefits of the procedure in a more shapely, balanced form, in spite of the swelling. In my experience, most patients report great satisfaction in the first few weeks and swelling is very temporary. 
To recap, a transient weight gain after liposuction is a common occurrence and is usually due to fluid retention and post-operative swelling. This weight gain is temporary and resolves gradually over the course of several weeks to months. It is important to maintain realistic expectations regarding your recovery and follow your plastic surgeon's guidelines for a beautiful, worry-free recovery.
Ultimately, you should speak to a board-certified plastic surgeon for a better understanding of your options. They can help tailor your treatment to your unique physiology and physique and help you reach your specific goals. I hope this helps.

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