What can I expect after the procedure?

After your liposuction the operating room staff will place you in a garment to control swelling and help your skin maintain its shape. These garments are usually worn for at least two weeks but your surgeon may ask you to wear it longer for optimal results. Your physician may call to check up on you and will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing.

You should expect swelling, bruising, numbness, and some pain (that can be managed with medications) immediately after surgery. Your physician may prescribe antibiotics to prevent infection. After a week or 10 days, your stitches will be removed (or they will dissolve on their own depending on the type of stitches used).

Helping yourself to recover from liposuction.

You should start walking as soon as possible after surgery to prevent blood clots from forming. Bruising and swelling usually subside within four-to-six weeks. You should see a noticeable difference in your shape soon after surgery, but your final contours will become visible after the swelling has completely subsided. Some swelling can remain for six months or more, but for most any mild swelling has disappeared and the final shape is visible after three months.

By exercising and eating a healthy diet, you can help maintain your new shape.