Lipo swelling can last for as long as a year after the procedure. However, in most cases, the majority of the swelling will subside within a couple of months. Of course, everyone heals at different rates. Nevertheless, many patients will see an outcome close to their result within three months.
Why Do I Experience Swelling After Liposuction?
The body naturally swells after an injury. After an incision, the body launches its own healing process. The “inflammatory stage” is the first part of your recovery process. During this phase, the body sends repair cells to the surgery site. The body’s inflammatory response involves pain and swelling. The cause of the swelling is increased fluid movement as white blood cells, enzymes, and growth factors travel to the treated area. Liposuction also involves the use of a cannula, which makes tunnels beneath the skin. These tunnels fill up with fluid during and after the procedure, and your body needs time to get rid of the fluid.
Also Read: 8 Top Tips to Minimize Swelling Following Cankle Liposuction
Is Swelling Normal After Lipo?
Swelling is entirely normal after liposuction. Your surgeon will advise you to expect swelling after your surgery. However, while most swelling is normal, it may rarely be a sign of a problem. You need to understand all the body’s signals that indicate a potential medical issue.
Fibrosis is one cause of swelling after liposuction. With this condition, the skin will feel different when compared with normal post-lipo swelling. The skin will feel harder and may have defined lumps and bumps. Fibrosis is due to additional fibrous tissue forming in the treated area. Massage can help to resolve this issue. Manual lymphatic drainage is a helpful treatment that can minimize post-liposuction fibrosis.
Seromas are another cause of swelling after liposuction. They arise when fluid collects at the incision site. Usually, seromas look different from regular post-lipo swelling. They look like a hard lump or cyst, and they may feel painful to the touch. A seroma may also drain fluid, and, in severe cases, it may calcify or develop an infection. Small seromas are likely to disappear on their own over time, but larger ones may require professional draining.
When Will The Swelling Be At Its Peak?
Swelling begins immediately after surgery in response to the cannula. It reaches its peak for most people at around 3 – 5 days post-procedure. For some people, it will continue to increase for the first 10 to 14 days. It should then gradually begin to subside.
When Will I See The Final Outcome Of My Surgery?
All patients are different, but most will see their final result after six months. If you aren’t sure your results are what you wanted, keep in mind that for some people, it may take a year before they see the outcome of their procedure. Around 10% of the total swelling may still be present after six months.
Will Wearing A Compression Garment Help To Minimize Swelling?
After liposuction surgery, your surgeon will give you a compression garment to wear. That is a properly fitted surgical garment that allows your body to recover post-procedure. Your body produces fluids naturally after lipo. Without proper compression, those fluids accumulate, causing discomfort, swelling, and delays in healing. Compression garments apply pressure evenly over the treated area, so the body absorbs accumulated fluid effectively.
You’ll need to wear your compression garment immediately after surgery. It’s likely your surgeon will advise you to wear it 24/7 for several weeks, only removing it to shower. Your surgeon will reduce the length of time you need to wear your garment. Eventually, you’ll no longer wear it at all.
A compression garment must fit snugly without being too bulky or restrictive. It must cover the entire treated area. Your surgeon will give you a garment that fits your body appropriately.
How Can I Reduce The Swelling?
There are several ways you can help to reduce the swelling after your procedure. Some of the most effective include:
- Applying ice or cold compresses to the skin
- Massage therapies
- Reducing your salt intake
- Drinking more water and avoiding diuretic drinks
- Taking short walks every day
- Avoiding excessive exercise
- Dry skin brushing
- Taking anti-inflammatories as prescribed by your surgeon
- Following all of your surgeon’s advice carefully after your procedure
How Will I Know If My Swelling After Lipo Is Normal?
After your liposuction surgery, you will have follow-up appointments arranged with your surgeon. During those appointments, your surgeon will examine you and can check that the swelling you’re experiencing is normal. If they identify a potential problem, they can then deal with it at an early stage. For this reason, it’s essential to choose a surgeon with plenty of skill and experience in performing liposuction procedures. Dr. Su at ArtLipo is an excellent choice, thanks to his extensive expertise in the field. With his deep knowledge of liposuction procedures, he can ensure impressive results for his patients and minimize any risks.
