Liposuction and Itchy Skin: Why Does It Happen and What Can I Do?

One of the best ways to remove unwanted body fat is to undergo a liposuction. This targeted body contouring surgery can get rid of love handles, unwanted flab, and other pockets of fat that don’t respond to a healthy diet or regular exercise.

Many liposuction patients will experience itchiness after their procedure. The plastic surgeons at our Philadelphia, PA would like to consider the causes of this irritation and what patients can do to minimize the itchiness after liposuction.

Is Itchiness Common after Liposuction?

Yes, itchiness is a common side effect of liposuction that many patients experience. It usually happens about two weeks after the procedure is performed as your initial side effects of discomfort, bruising, and swelling have dissipated.

Why Does My Skin Itch?

Around the two-week mark, your nerves begin to wake up again. You’ve healed from surgery and the nerves are feeling extra sensitive, resulting in irritation and itchiness. It can be annoying but rest assured that this is another sign you are successfully healing from surgery.

How Long Does the Itchiness Last?

The itchiness can last for a few days after liposuction has been performed. It ultimately varies from patients to patient, but the sensation will pass so long as you take care of your skin during this time. You should notice day-to-day improvements with proper care.

Do NOT Scratch Your Skin

First things first, do not scratch your skin. You may feel a strong desire to scratch, but this will only irritate the skin further and could have a negative impact on the healing process. This could even aggravate the small incision sites from your liposuction, affecting the overall results.

Take Antihistamines as Directed

One of the best ways to manage your itchiness is to take an oral antihistamine as directed. This will help provide relieve from the itchiness and soothe the skin in the process.

Avoid Using Anti-itch Creams Until Given the Okay

A topical anti-itching cream could be a key to relief, but it could be too early to use one. Be sure to get the go ahead from your surgeon before applying any sort of topical creams, lotions, or ointments to the incision sites following surgery.

Stop Wearing Your Compression Garment

Compression garments can provide support and comfort in the first stages of healing, but it can also be the source of irritation after a while. If you are feeling itchy, stop wearing your compression garment. That can help reduce the irritation you feel and help your skin feel more comfortable.

Use a Cold Compress for Relief

You may not be able to scratch, but you can apply a cold compress to the skin. The coolness can help relieve the itchiness, reduce redness and irritation, and help you avoid the urge to scratch.

Hydrate Regularly

As always, water is your best friend. In the weeks after surgery, continue to drink a lot of water and stay properly hydrated. This can go a long way toward improving your overall sense of wellness. Avoid alcoholic beverages during this time as well.

What If the Itchiness Gets Worse?

If you notice that the itchiness gets worse after a few days, be sure to speak with your plastic surgeon. This could be a sign of an infection, a serious allergic reaction, or some other issue that requires professional attention.

Learn More about Liposuction

For more information about managing surgical side effects and feeling your best after liposuction, be sure to contact our team of cosmetic surgeons. The entire team at Jefferson Plastic Surgery is here to help you.