Recovery from liposuction surgery will vary for each patient and will be largely dependent on what area(s) of the body were treated and how large the treatment area is. Below are some general time guidelines for the following aspects of liposuction recovery:
- Anesthesia: In most cases, general anesthesia will be used during liposuction treatment. For this reason, patients will require a ride home following treatment, as well as someone to stay with them for the first 24 hours following surgery. Side effects of anesthesia may include dizziness, fatigue, and nausea.
- Pain: It is normal for patients to experience some discomfort during liposuction recovery. While any pain should dissipate within the first week or two of recovery, pain medication will be prescribed to help patients manage any discomfort that is experienced.
- Bruising and swelling: Bruising and swelling are the most common side effects of liposuction. Both of these side effects may be significant. While bruising is likely to fade within the first few weeks of recovery, swelling will likely persist for much longer. While swelling will gradually decrease, it may take up to six months for the swelling to completely subside.
- Numbness: Many patients also experience some numbness in the treatment area. Like bruising and swelling, this side effect should subside on its own, but may take up to several weeks or months to subside.
- Compression garments: Compression garments are an important aid in liposuction recovery. These compress the treatment area and promote circulation to help reduce swelling, as well as help promote tightening of the skin in the treatment area. We will instruct patients on the exact use of compression garments, but they are typically worn for up to six weeks.
- Physical activity: During recovery from liposuction, patients will need to limit physical activity. While regular walking is encouraged, more strenuous activity should be avoided for about six weeks after the liposuction procedure. However, most patients are able to return to regular daily activities, including work, within a week or two after treatment.
- Results: Results of liposuction will slowly become apparent as swelling subsides. This means that it may take up to six months for the body to completely settle and for the final results of treatment to be obvious.
Schedule an Appointment
Liposuction is an effective procedure that can help patients improve body contour by eliminating excess pockets of fat. To learn more about the liposuction procedure and recovery, and find out if this treatment is right for you, schedule an appointment at Gaines Plastic Surgery at your earliest convenience. We look forward to meeting you!