Liposuction Recovery

Liposuction Procedures

Liposuction procedures vary depending on what your ultimate goal is, and whether you are combining it with other cosmetic procedures. It is always evolving, and these days it is preferable to opt for tumescent liposuction as there appear to be more benefits thanks to the use of local anaesthetic as opposed to general. Small incisions are made through which a cannula is passed. This is a slender tube which is connected to a vacuum device which can remove the fatty cells from beneath the skin. The cannula creates tiny tunnels which loosen the surrounding fat cells, making them easier to be removed. This form of liposuction is not only quicker than usual but is also more precise, leading to more satisfying results. Other procedures include power assisted liposuction, which uses a motorised cannula, and liposelection, which uses ultrasonic waves to target and disturb the fat cells, making them easier to remove without disturbing the surrounding tissue.

Liposuction Recovery Time

Recovery time is unique for each individual, and depends greatly on what procedure you have had and where. If a general anaesthetic is used, you will usually be kept overnight at the hospital or clinic where the surgery took place. A local anaesthetic can still take up to 20 hours to wear off, meaning that you can have liposuction on a ‘walk in walk out’ basis but will still need to take things easy afterwards. Once the procedure has been completed, it is likely you will be given a protective and structured garment to wear on the targeted area. This will support the area and help minimise the risk of infection. They should be worn for at least a week after the surgery, and then continued use at night is advised. Your surgeon will tell you how long to keep it on. It is best to have someone collect you after the procedure and to rest for the first week to aid optimum recovery.

Long term recovery and results

In the first weeks after liposuction, there will be some tenderness and swelling to the treated area. Your GP or surgeon can recommend the best painkillers to take, and this will eventually subside. The incisions made to perform the liposuction are usually stitched closed, and will heal quickly and effectively providing you rest as much as possible and keep the dressings clean. Sometimes antibiotics are prescribed to reduce the risk of infection. If you have any queries, you should discuss them with your surgeon at the follow-up appointment. Bruising often occurs with liposuction, but will also fade with time. Once the swelling has gone down, the results can be seen clearly and most patients have no complaints about the outcome. It can, however, take up to 6 months to appreciate the full effect of the liposuction, so you must be prepared to be patient.