Uneven Swelling on Love Handles After Liposuction?

Question

I had a Liposuction 3  weeks ago (May 26) on my love handles. I noticed that my right love handle is gone, but the left one is not gone completely. I know I'm still swollen because I feel sore and lumpy on both sides. I still have bruising on my left love handle, but it looks fatter. Did my doctor left some fat in this area, or is this just swelling? I believe the doctor had to work on one side more than on the other (not sure which side though), would that cause the uneven swelling?

Richard J. Bruneteau, MD · Answer

It’s not unusual for patients to
have asymmetric swelling in the immediate post-operative period following
tumescent liposuction.  In most
cases the majority of swelling has resolved in 4 to 6 weeks, but in some cases
swelling may persist for 3 to 4 months following surgery.  Swelling can be asymmetric for a variety
of reasons following surgery.  In
some cases it may be positional, while in other cases it may be related to
intra operative factors.

In the vast majority of patients,
asymmetric swelling resolves with the passage of time.  Rarely revisional surgery is necessary,
but this is unusual.  It’s
important to discuss this issue with your plastic surgeon.  A little reassurance will make your
post-operative experience much more tolerable.

Jerome Edelstein, MD · Answer

Uneven swelling is common following liposuction. Most of the swelling will be gone in 2-3 weeks, but some firmness can last for a couple of months. You can assess your results at about the three or four month mark. You can try massaging the area with your surgeon's advice.

Vivek Bansal, MD · Answer

Swelling asymmetry is common after lipo as people sleep on one side or need more work on one side. At the 6-8 week mark, you should be getting more symmetrical. At that time consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon for more guidance.

Joel Schlessinger, MD · Answer

It takes about 4 to 8 weeks to see the final results of liposuction, so don't worry yet. It may still be naturally swollen, so this may be completely normal so far. On the other hand, if it is painful or warm, please contact your doctor as you may need treatment for an infection or collection of fluid.

Tom J. Pousti, MD · Answer

Thank you for the question.

	At 3 weeks postop it is still too early to evaluate your final results. I ask patients to wait at least 2 to 3 months to assess the results of the procedure. It may take several months later for the skin to &ldquo;redrape".

	I would suggest continued follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

	Best wishes.

David Finkle, MD · Answer

Swelling after liposuction can persist for weeks. The final result will probably not be realized for 6 months. No two areas swell the same, so uneven swelling is the norm. Be patient, it should smooth out with time. Endermologie treatments can help to smooth the swelling and improve the results of your procedure.

Peter E. Johnson, MD · Answer

Uneven swelling can be seen after liposuction depending on pressure of the garment, sleeping position, uneven bruising. Asymmetry over the hip can also be influenced by limb length discrepancy. The short answer is it is really too soon to tell. Rest and follow recovery instructions and give it three months.
	Best of luck,
	peterejohnsonmd

Pat Pazmino, MD, FACS · Answer

After liposuction surgery, patients can expect to experience swelling, bruising, and mild drainage. Your body is currently undergoing a recovery process after the surgery. It will take months until the swelling has resolved and you will achieve your final results. During this healing time, it is possible that you will have uneven results in an area of the body. Your best plan of action is to wear your compression garment at all times during this healing process. The garment will apply even and consistent pressure onto the treated areas so that the skin may stick smoothly onto the underlying muscle.

Christopher L. Hess, MD · Answer

Three weeks isn't enough time to make any conclusions about your result.  There is still a modest amount of swelling and if one side had to be worked on more than the other it may have more swelling.   At three weeks post op I have my patients go from wearing the garment 24 hours per day to 12 hours per day during the day.  If you still have significant asymmetry after 6 months then you should discuss it with your surgeon.  
I would not even consider a revision until 6-8 months after surgery.

Steven Wallach, MD · Answer

Uneven swelling after liposuction can be normal anatomical differences between the two sides, uneven removal of fat, or just uneven swelling. You should give it some time and if you are concerned talk it over with your doctor and review your pre-op photos.

Uneven Swelling on Love Handles After Liposuction?

Answers (12)

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