Uneven Swelling on Love Handles After Liposuction?

 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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 “redrape".

I would suggest continued follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

Best wishes.