It’s important to us that patients receive information about their surgical recovery in order to have realistic expectations about the procedures they undergo. Let’s cover some common side effects after liposuction right now.
Pain and Discomfort After Liposuction
One of the most common side effects after any kind of surgery—necessary or elective—is pain and discomfort. In order to address these side effects after liposuction, it’s important for patients to get a lot of rest, avoid strenuous physical activities, remain well-hydrated, and take pain relievers as needed.
Bruising After Liposuction
Bruising is also a common side effect after any kind of surgery and is your body’s natural response to trauma of different kinds. The bruising is most noticeable in the first week or so, but it fades so long as patients pay attention to their post-op instructions.
Swelling After Liposuction
Swelling is a very common side effect following surgery, and it is often paired with bruising. The swelling after liposuction is generally minimal and very manageable. Again, rest and hydration are both keys to addressing these side effects.
Tingling and Numbness in the Treatment Area
Many patients who undergo liposuction notice some numbness and tingling in the treatment areas, though this tends to be minor and will diminish with proper recovery.
Rippling of the Skin
When fat is removed from the treatment area, it’s not uncommon for the skin to be a little looser in that region. Some bagginess or small marks may be present there, though the skin will eventually shrink to the slimmer body contour.
How long will the side effects of of liposuction last?
It’s best to break this down a bit.
In general, the primary side effects of liposuction will last about two weeks. This includes the major discomfort, bruising, and swelling that comes with the surgery. These side effects will subside in about that timeframe so patients can return to work.
Swelling will last for a few weeks after the surgery, though by the end of the first two weeks, the swelling will be minor and will continue to subside.
Tingling and numbness after liposuction will typically last for several weeks, which is natural. Patients should notice these sensation subside with time and by properly following their post-op instructions.
Bagginess and sagging of the skin may take a few months to fully resolve depending on the amount of fat removed.
Keep in Contact with Your Surgeon as You Recover
In order to ensure that you heal properly and free from complications, it’s important that you keep in touch with your surgeon and attend all scheduled follow-up visits. This is an ideal way to have any and all concerns addressed in a timely manner.
Schedule a Visit to Gaines Plastic Surgery
For more information about liposuction and your many other options available for advanced body contouring and sculpting, be sure to contact our cosmetic skin care and plastic surgery practice today. At Gaines Plastic Surgery, we will work closely with you to ensure you look your very best.