After Liposuction

Liposuction or liposculpture is a cosmetic surgery procedure designed to remove excess fat from the body using suction technique. The areas of the body most commonly treated using liposuction are the abdomen, thighs, buttocks and arms, as these are where fatty deposits are prone to build up.

Immediately After Liposuction

Once the surgery has been completed, the treated area will be firmly strapped to keep the skin tight. Support bandages made from elasticated fabric are issued to reduce swelling and hold shape. Patients are advised to wear the support bandages continuously for 2 to 3 weeks. After the first 24 hours Patients can remove the support garment for bathing and replace it after.

Swelling will occur after liposuction and can last for 8 to 12 weeks after the surgery. Surgeons advise patients get up and walk around as soon as possible once the treatment is complete in order to minimise the swelling. Continuous wearing of the support garment will also reduce swelling. Special exercises may be recommended depending on the treatment area.

Bruising is common following a liposuction procedure, but this will begin to subside within a few days and disappear completely within a fortnight.

Surgeons will advise patients get up and walk around as soon as possible once the treatment is complete in order to minimise the swelling.

Patients may experience small leakage or seepage after the surgery and when this occurs further treatment is required to drain the fluid so a patient should return to the clinic for advice and for the drainage tube fitting.

Recovery from Liposuction

The length of a recovery period after a liposuction procedure will depend on the size of the targeted area of the body or the number of areas operated on.

Some discomfort is to be expected after the operation as the body tissues adjust and reform. Clinics will provide prescription painkillers for use once the anesthesia has worn off. If patients require further pain relief then over-the-counter medication should suffice. If severe or continuous pain occurs then the patient should seek medical advice.

Mild burning sensations at the site of the surgery are quite common up to a month after the procedure. This is where trauma has occurred within the surrounding muscles during treatment. These sensations will subside as the body heals.

It may take 3 to 6 months for the full effect of the body contouring to be seen.