Liposuction or body contouring is a popular cosmetic procedure. At Total Body, our surgeons use a minimally invasive, laser-assisted liposuction technique to remove unwanted fat with minimal downtime. However, recovery from liposuction still varies from person to person. The size of the treated area is also a factor of its healing time. To give you an idea of what to expect after the surgery, here is a typical timeline when healing from liposuction:
1-2 Weeks After Liposuction
When the anesthesia starts wearing off, expect to feel pain and soreness in the treated area. Though the pain is tolerable, the doctor may still prescribe pain relievers for times the pain becomes too debilitating. Your movements may also be limited around this phase.
Your surgeon will cover the treated areas with elastic bandages or compression garments for protection, as well as for the reduction of swelling. The first two weeks is typically the toughest and most uncomfortable phase of recovery. You will also need to be aware of possible infection, thus careful monitoring of the treated area is recommended during this time. Your daily activities may be limited around this period as well.
2-4 Weeks After Liposuction
Your bruises and wounds during this time may have probably healed. You can gradually go back to your normal activities around this period. However, you must reduce your activities if you start feeling pain or discomfort. You may also begin engaging in light to moderate exercise on the third week after liposuction.
Weeks After Liposuction
The 4th week is the most awaited phase after liposuction. You may see the final result of your procedure during this time, and the bruises may be totally gone. You will see your new shape 4 weeks after the surgery, and you may also go back to your daily activities like the usual. However, swelling will be completely gone around 6th weeks after the procedure. Not until the swelling are fully healed until you can finalize the results of liposuction. Typically, you will have to wait for 3 months to see the final effects of your procedure.
Tips For Fast And Normal Liposuction Recovery
• Schedule time for enough rest
• Maintain wearing compression bandages and garments at least for two weeks
• Make sure to drink and finish your antibiotics if your doctor prescribed such medications
• Monitor the treated areas carefully until the bruises are healed
• Walk gently as soon as possible, as it would prevent blood clots from forming
• Keep your incision covered with bandages and always keep it clean
• Don’t expose the area at least 12 months after the procedure
