Liposuction offers targeted “spot treatments” for stubborn fat deposits all over the body. Its versatility as a body contouring procedure makes it a popular surgical option. Although it uses tiny incisions, it still requires downtime afterward. Liposuction is also commonly combined with other surgical procedures. If you are wondering what the recovery process for liposuction is like, this blog post has you covered.
What Affects Liposuction Recovery?
Your liposuction recovery depends on various factors, including the type of liposuction performed, the areas where liposuction is performed, the volume of fat removed with liposuction, and your own individual healing rate. Keep reading to find out what you can expect in general.
Immediate Recovery (Days 1 to 3)
The first few days following your liposuction procedure will typically bring some discomfort. However, many patients find the tenderness and soreness manageable with prescription and over-the-counter pain medication.
During this time, it is essential to rest. Gentle movements and slow, short walks are key to encouraging healing, but be careful not to overdo it. There may be drain tubes or drainage from the incisions for the first few days after the procedure.
Managing Bruising and Swelling
Bruising and swelling usually peak during the first few days after your procedure. To counteract these issues, we will send you home wearing compression garments, which you will need to wear continuously for several weeks.
These garments minimize swelling, support the healing process, and improve circulation. If you choose to have VASERlipo—which uses ultrasonic energy to target fat cells and make them easier to remove—you will likely have less bruising and swelling than with traditional suction liposuction. VASER liposuction recovery may also be shorter due to its gentler, less aggressive nature.
Mid-Recovery (Days 4 to 10)
As you progress through your liposuction recovery timeline, you’ll notice gradual improvements as bruising fades and the swelling diminishes. (Keep in mind that residual swelling can persist for several months.) Continue to wear your compression garment, start reintroducing light housework and chores, and follow Dr. Wright’s guidelines for showering and incision care.
Return to Work (Days 11 to 14)
By the two-week mark, you’ll notice a significant reduction in swelling and bruising. You should be feeling well enough to return to work or school but will still need to wear your compression garments. Don’t hesitate to contact our office for guidance if you have concerns or questions about your recovery or when you can resume certain activities.
Renuvion® Recovery
Many patients choose to combine their liposuction with Renuvion for its skin-tightening benefits. Renuvion uses helium plasma and radiofrequency energy to encourage the skin to firm and retract to its newly contoured shape. This can lead to less postoperative discomfort and a shorter recovery period. Learn more about combining these procedures in our related blog post.
Complete Recovery (Week 4 and Beyond)
After the first month or so, you should be back to your regular routine and physical activities. You can finally bid farewell to your compression garments, though the last 5% to 10% of swelling may take up to a year to fully resolve.
The incisions used in liposuction are short, discreetly placed, and tend to heal well. As the scars mature, they will get flatter and lighter until they are inconspicuous. With a stable weight and healthy lifestyle, you should be able to enjoy your sleeker contours for years to come.
How Long Does Renuvion Last?
Renuvion produces long-lasting results that can be enjoyed for years with regular exercise and healthy eating habits. Weight fluctuations can stretch the skin, so being at or near your ideal weight at the time of the procedure can help you maintain and prolong your results.
Start Your Body Contouring Journey
If you want to learn more about your liposuction options, including VASERlipo and liposuction with Renuvion, please request a consultation or call us at (501) 575-0088 to get started. We are here to answer your questions, discuss your goals, and guide you to a personalized treatment plan tailored to your needs.
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