Recovery After Liposuction
The recovery after liposuction depends upon the area of the body that underwent the procedure. It is usually an out-patient procedure which means that the patient can return home on the day of the surgery. For the first 72 hours, the patient may experience mild pain for which medicines are prescribed. The patient will experience mild swelling that is temporary, peaks in 3-5 days and disappears within 2-3 weeks. Patient should expect to initially gain some weight after liposuction due to the swelling. There is also some bruising which dissipates by 7-10 days.
Depending upon the area on which the surgery is performed, most patients with sitting job can join back work after 2-3 days. Strenuous physical activities and sports are restricted for 3-4 weeks. Please note, these are general guidelines and may differ on an individual basis.
During your liposuction recovery, your surgeon will recommend you to wear a compression garment over the treated areas for 4-6 weeks post surgery. This helps to control swelling and compresses the skin to help the skin retract and keep the contours as designed during the surgery.
Post Operative Care Instructions
Going Home: Plan in advance. Have someone to drive you home post the surgery.
Diet: If liposuction was performed under local anesthesia, one can resume a normal diet immediately. Stay hydrated, avoid alcohol for 48 hours before and after surgery.
Physical Activity: Depending upon the area where liposuction is performed, most patients can join back work by 3 days post op if in a sitting job. Strenuous physical activities and sports are should be restricted for 3-4 weeks. These are just general guidelines and may differ on an individual basis, hence consulting your plastic surgeon is recommended.
Elastic Compression Garments: The surgeon will recommend you to wear a compression garment over the area on which liposuction is performed for 6 weeks post operation. This helps to control swelling and compresses the skin to keep the contours as designed during the surgery.
Dizziness and Fainting: Some patients experience brief dizziness morning after the surgery. If you experience any dizziness, simply lie down with legs raised until it passes and keep yourself well hydrated.
Wound Care & Bathing: Keep incisions clean. Shower once or twice daily. Before cleaning the incision, one must wash their hands. After washing the incision, pat dry it gently with a clean towel. Apply new absorbent pads.
Take Antibiotics: Take Antibiotics as directed by the surgeon.
