General Tips for Fast Recovery After Liposuction

The healing process after liposuction will vary based on personal considerations. Planning well ahead for the post-operative period and following the plastic surgeon’s post-op care instructions is very important to recover smoothly:

  • Have someone accompany you to and from surgery.
  • Wear the support compression garment continuously for the first 12 weeks post the procedure OR as recommended by your surgeon.
  • Stay hydrated and drink lot of water (8 -10 glasses of water a day).
  • Eat well and rest well.
  • Move/pump/elevate your legs frequently while lying down.
  • Resume activities slowly. You may feel tired for the first few days.
  • Finish all your grocery shopping before your surgery date
  • Fill up all required prescriptions beforehand.
  • Take only those medications approved or prescribed by your surgeon.
  • Some discomfort or pain is to be expected after the procedure. Taking the pain medications as instructed by your surgeon is important.
  • Avoid making major decisions or participating in activities that require judgment for 48 hours after surgery.
  • Keeping your incisions/ports dry and clean is critical to reduce the risk of infection.
  • Make sure to set up all your post-operative massage appointments in advance.
  • Get in touch with your post-operative specialist and ask questions to address your concerns.
  • Avoid driving for first 24 hours after surgery or if you are taking pain medications.
  • Light walking is recommended to prevent blood clots from developing.
  • Do not participate in strenuous activities such as running or aerobics for six weeks. You can resume your activities slowly by starting with low intensity, lower body exercise.
  • Avoid exposing the incisions to direct sunlight for at least a year. Use sunscreen with an SPF of 20 or greater to decrease the visibility of the scar.
  • Do not smoke for at least 6 weeks post-op as it can delay healing and can lead to infection.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking plenty of fluids for the first week.
  • Some bruising and swelling is normal.
  • It usually takes between 3-6 months to see your final results.
  • Sleep on your back for two weeks post-op. For good night sleep try sleeping in a recliner chair or have extra pillows in your bed for support.
  • You would be asked to limit the use of your arms, lifting heavy items, apply pressure to the affected areas for two-four weeks after surgery
  • Create a nest of pillows to prop up in a semi-upright position which will give you the extra support you need to get out of bed.
  • Depending upon your work activity, you may return to work in one to six weeks (average time is three weeks)
  • You will experience constipation if taking narcotic pain relievers. MiraLAX or other over-the-counter laxatives are recommended. Do not wait to take it until you are constipated.
  • Inform your surgeon immediately if you notice any sign of infection.