After Liposuction

While your liposuction procedure may seem like the final step in achieving your ideal figure, it’s only the start of the journey toward your final results. A healthy recovery is critical in encouraging your body to heal properly and develop the results you’re looking for.

Request a consultation to meet with one of our cosmetic surgeons and learn more about what to expect both before and after liposuction.

• Soreness

  Any surgery normally results in some degree of physical discomfort. Most people are able to manage any soreness with over-the-counter medication, but your surgeon can prescribe you something stronger if necessary.

• Swelling

  The treatment area(s) will likely develop some swelling that should peak over the first few days following your procedure and gradually diminish.

• Bruising

  Some temporary bruising may result from liposuction. This should fade over the coming days and weeks.

Your surgeon may ask you to wear a special post-surgical compression garment or bandages following your liposuction procedure. The purpose of the compression garment is to promote optimal blood circulation, reduce swelling and expedite the healing process. Our staff will schedule your first follow-up appointment and provide a detailed list of post-operative instructions.

• The First Few Days

  Immediately after your surgery, the change in your figure may not be apparent due to post-surgical swelling. Some soreness is to be expected, which you can manage with pain medications as needed. Prepare ice packs or bags of frozen veggies that can contour to your body to soothe any soreness and help reduce swelling. Light walking around the house is encouraged, as this will stimulate blood flow.

• The First Week

  Your swelling may continue to increase during the first week and you may develop some bruising in and around the treatment area(s). Many men and women who get liposuction are able to stop taking any pain medications toward the end of the first week. Some people return to work after the first week of downtime, but others may take more time off.

• The First Month

  Soreness and swelling should noticeably decrease during the first month. You can gradually return to light physical activity at your surgeon’s recommendations, but continue to avoid strenuous exercise for another few weeks.

• The First Few Months

  After a few months, your swelling should dissipate and you should have a good idea of what your final results will look like. You may still have some lingering tenderness in the treatment area(s). You should be able to resume normal exercise and activities, provided that the treatment area(s) doesn’t feel aggravated.

• 6 Months after Surgery

  By this time, you should have noticeably slimmer body contours where the liposuction was performed. It’s important to continue to maintain your results with a healthy and balanced diet and an active lifestyle.

• 1 Year after Surgery

  Any scars from your liposuction procedure should continue to heal and mature for 1 year or more following your surgery. By now, you should be able to see your final liposuction results. If you wish to further fine-tune your figure, you can schedule a follow-up appointment with your surgeon to discuss your options.

This guide does not represent every stage of your recovery and your body will continue to respond to factors such as age, lifestyle and weight fluctuations. Provided that you practice regular exercise and healthy eating, you should be able to enjoy your new, slimmer figure for many years to come. It’s important to learn all that you can expect before liposuction as well as after to enjoy the most positive experience.