What to Expect during Liposuction Recovery
Individuals who desire to eliminate stubborn fat deposits can benefit from liposuction at the Hurwitz Center for Plastic Surgery in Pittsburgh, PA.* Knowing what to expect after the treatment can help alleviate worry and fears of the unknown. As with any surgical procedure, extra care will be necessary during your liposuction recovery. After treatment, patients should get out of bed and walk short distances and can generally expect to resume non-strenuous activities within three to 10 days. We have been practicing for decades and will walk you through everything you need to know about your recovery.
The Day of Your Procedure
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure. The length of the surgery will vary for each individual depending on how many areas require treatment. The day of your procedure, you will need to bring a trusted friend or family member along to drive you to and from your appointment. This individual should also be able to stay with you for the first 24 hours to help you during your immediate recovery.
Liposuction patients can generally expect to resume work and non-strenuous activities within three to 10 days.
When you return home, it is important to walk around the house occasionally to reduce the risk for blood clots and other serious post-surgical complications. After the first day, we recommend brief walks outside to aid in the healing process. As with any surgical procedure, some degree of tenderness and swelling is typical. These side effects can be managed with prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers. Your surgeon may also place a compression bandage over the surgical site to help reduce swelling and inflammation. It is important to closely follow his recommendations so that you can enjoy a comfortable recovery.*
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Walking inside on the evening after your surgery can minimize your risk of blood clots.
When Can I Return to Normal Activities?
Liposuction is a personalized procedure. Therefore, recovery will be different for every patient. The amount of downtime necessary will entirely depend on the extent of your treatment. After undergoing a minor procedure, patients may be able to return to work in as few as three days. However, if more extensive treatment is performed or your job is physically demanding, it could take as long as 10 days. In most cases, patients can resume normal exercise routines within a few days. However, we recommend that you start slow, and increase activity as you feel able.*
How Long Can I Expect Swelling and Bruising to Last?
Following liposuction, it is normal for patients to experience bruising and swelling. Because every individual is different, some may notice these side effects longer than others. On average, slight swelling and inflammation will linger for about three months. However, in most cases, post-operative bruising should diminish within four weeks.*
One Month and Beyond
Once you reach the four-month mark, your final results will become more apparent. However, as aforementioned, it could take up to three months total for the full effects to become noticeable. Patience and compliance are the two most important factors in the recovery process. The end result will be a more aesthetically pleasing contour and a boost in self-confidence.*
Contact Us to Learn More
If you are considering liposuction, or if you have already undergone the procedure, knowing what to expect during the recovery process is extremely beneficial. It is also important to know how specific details of your treatment will affect the recovery timeline. For example, if you undergo liposuction as part of a Brazilian butt lift procedure, you will have additional recovery instructions you will have to follow to ensure that both procedures yield excellent results. As always, our team is standing by to answer any questions you may have regarding treatment. To learn more about cosmetic procedures, or to schedule a consultation, contact the practice online or call (866) 473-2570.
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“I honestly never thought of myself as a serious candidate for elective surgery ... but I’m already feeling and looking so much better.*” Jill's Story
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