How Long Does It Take to Recover From Liposuction?

Liposuction is a safe procedure that helps many people successfully get rid of excess fat. It is invasive and needs lots of attention and care for a suitable recovery. Having information on what to expect after surgery can help your recovery process a bit easier.

Factors to Consider

A face-to-face consultation is imperative before undergoing liposuction. The advantage is that you can get an idea of how the surgery will go. You will also know what to expect in terms of recovery. Another vital point is that recovery from liposuction is not the same for everyone.

Several factors affect the length of your recovery process. They include age, medical history, and overall health. However, it is advisable to let your body recover slowly at its own pace.

The Recovery Process

Liposuction is a same-day, outpatient procedure. The length of the surgery depends on the amount of fat you have. If your situation requires removing a significant amount of fat, you may have to stay overnight for observation.

Healing from liposuction typically takes around six weeks. The breakdown of the healing process goes as follows:

First Three Days

In this period after surgery, you will have elastic bandages or a compression garment around the surgical wound. They help decrease swelling and outline the body to the shape you desire. Your surgeon may also place drains along the treatment area.

These drain the fluids that may otherwise slow healing by building up around the wounds. You may experience some slight pain and soreness in these initial healing stages. Take any medicine that your surgeon gives you diligently to avoid discomfort.

Week Two

The first signs of relief appear during the second week. You will experience a substantial decrease in pain and soreness. If you are feeling strong enough, you may return to work. But if your job is physically demanding, you may need to take additional time off. You still cannot remove your compression garments at this time.

Between Weeks Three to Five

After approximately one month, you may no longer experience any pain or soreness. Do not worry about any swelling that is still visible because it is normal. It may take a few more months to subside entirely. The more the bruising and swelling heal, the better your results.

Most people can resume light exercises after approximately four weeks. Avoid any strenuous or heavy activity at this time as they may interfere with your healing process.

From Week Six and Beyond

From this juncture, most of your bruises and swellings are hardly visible. Any that are lingering will soon subside. The physicians can now take out your compression garments. Your activities are no longer under restriction unless there are other complications.

You can incorporate several things into your daily routine to encourage healing. They include:

• Stay hydrated - You need an abundant amount of drinking water after the surgery. Infuse with fruits if you need to.
• Proper Diet - Healing requires suitable nutrition. Eat regularly.
• Rest up.
• Take a walk - Light movements help speed up healing.

For more on recovering from liposuction, visit Pinellas Laser Lipo at our office in Seminole, Florida. You can also call (727) 397-3000 to book an appointment today.