Swelling along with pain, tingling, itching after VASER and Renuvion after 7 months

Question

I had VASER and renuvion treatments around my whole abdomen, flank, and thighs almost 7 months ago. I'd say about 4.5 months post-op was the best in terms of healing and it started swelling back a little more, and the symptoms that seem to associate with nerve healing worsened thereafter. The lower abdomen has a bulge across my hip. It seems that the liposuction recovery could take up to one year but is it normal that the symptoms got worsened over time? Anything that would help healing?

J. Timothy Katzen, MD, FACS · Answer

Thank you for your question regarding swelling, pain, tingling, and itching after VASER and Renuvion treatments. At 7 months post-op, it’s not uncommon for some patients to experience nerve healing symptoms like tingling and itching, as nerve regeneration can take time. Swelling may also persist, especially after liposuction and Renuvion, which can take up to 12 months for full recovery. However, the fact that your symptoms worsened after 4.5 months could indicate residual swelling, scar tissue formation, or even a seroma (fluid buildup).

It's important to monitor any new or worsening symptoms. If the bulge across your hip continues or the pain becomes more intense, it's best to consult with your plastic surgeon for an evaluation. They may recommend imaging to rule out complications like fluid collections or scar tissue.

To help with healing, consider the following:

Lymphatic drainage massages – These can help reduce swelling and improve fluid circulation.
Compression garments – If you’ve stopped wearing your compression garment, you may want to resume wearing it to help control swelling.
Anti-inflammatory medications – These can help manage swelling and discomfort.
Scar management – Silicone sheets or scar creams may help with scar tissue formation if this is contributing to the bulge.
Since your symptoms worsened after initial improvement, a follow-up with your surgeon is highly recommended to ensure there are no underlying issues affecting your recovery.

Sincerely,
Dr. Katzen

Chad Deal, MD · Answer

It is certainly normal to have nerve regrowth which comes along with a tingling feeling and even itching. This is actually a good sign that you will recover sensation in that area. On the other hand, developing a new swelling this far out from liposuction is not normal. It could just be that you stopped wearing your garment and now are still seeing some lymphatic swelling. If this is not the case, I would certainly follow up with your surgeon because you could be developing deep scar tissue will have to be addressed and one of several ways

Swelling along with pain, tingling, itching after VASER and Renuvion after 7 months

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Swelling along with pain, tingling, itching after VASER and Renuvion after 7 months

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Everything you need to know about Vaser Liposuction

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