Why Is My Liposuction Areas So Hard Weeks After Surgery?

Q: Dr. Eppley, Dr. Eppley, why is my abdomen and waist so hard after two weeks, sore I can understand. How long before it gets back soft. Further when can I stop wearing the garments they are so uncomfortable. Can I take an over the counter drug to help the with swelling or what can I do to help the hardness HELP PLEASE

A: Liposuction is a very traumatic procedure to the tissues that results in swelling, induration and a scar-type reaction. Every liposuction patient, regardless of the technique used, will have to endure a period of swelling and tissue firmness. This is normal and to be expected. The two go hand in hand and both resolve slowly. It is a natural process that takes time as lymphatic drainage is restored. Tissues will return to a normal feel as the soreness and numbness passes. While it will get better as each week goes by, expect a return to complete normalcy of up to a minimum of 6 weeks and possibly as long as three months. There is nothing you can do to hasten that process along such as any OTC medications.

Dr. Barry Eppley

Indianapolis, Indiana