What can I expect after my
liposuction procedure?

After the surgery, the operating room staff will place you in a compression 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 should call to check up on you and will schedule follow-up visits to monitor your healing.

You should expect temporary 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.

Remember, recovery is a time for rest, healing, and care from loved ones and a bit of surrendering to the process. That said, there’s a lot you can do to speed up your recovery, keep yourself safe and resume your life. First and foremost, it’s crucial that you start walking as soon as possible after the 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. The swelling can come and go for six months or more, but for most, the final shape is visible after three months.

Be sure to exercise and eat a healthy diet which is great advice for everyone, of course, but in your case, doing the “right things” can help maintain your new shape.