Liposuction Recovery

Make sure you have the right products and medications on hand to ensure a smooth and speedy recovery from your liposuction procedure.

Liposuction Recovery and Survival Kits
These commercially available kits can help minimize post-op bruising and swelling; speed healing and tissue growth; reduce scarring; help your skin fit to your new shape and ease pain and discomfort. They reportedly combine the most effective healing products available for liposuction patients.

Compression Garments
Post-op compression garments are available for almost every body part. Like a body suit or leotard, a liposuction garment is relatively comfortable and unobtrusive. By applying pressure to treated areas and forcing body fluids into deeper layers of tissue, they speed healing and can prevent skin from sagging. The garments support skin as it adjusts to the body’s new shape, further enhancing results. Compression garments are considered an essential part of liposuction.

Cold and Hot Therapy Packs
Applying low or high temperatures to the affected areas can aid healing and ease the side effects of liposuction. Cold packs can relieve pain and increase mobility, while hot compresses prevent bruising, discoloration and soreness. Follow your doctor’s orders on the use of cold and hot therapy packs following surgery.

Pillows
Remaining in a single, immobile position during recovery can cause muscle pain and tension. Leg separators and U-shaped pillows can make you more comfortable while you heal.

Vitamins and Supplements
Some supplements are not recommended for liposuction patients, but those recommended by your doctor can aid your recovery. Vitamin supplements can prepare the body for the operation, speed healing and shorten recovery time and minimize swelling and scarring. It’s advisable to ask your doctor before taking any vitamins or supplements.

Protein Shakes and Powders
Protein intake has a major impact on wound healing. Protein supplements, which often come in shake and powder form, can help the body build up the collagen and elastin needed for optimal wound healing. Your body needs more protein after surgery. Proper nourishment can improve your healing and final results. Again, remember to check with your doctor.

Scar-Reducing Creams, Gels and Sheets
These products can reduce scar tissue development and alleviate some discomfort and redness along scar lines. These products should never be applied to an open wound.

ActiPatch
This device emits electromagnetic radiation from a small patch to speed soft-tissue healing. The ActiPatch is FDA approved, but is not widely prescribed. Make sure you have a doctor’s order before using.

Wellbox
Wellbox is an FDA-approved device that helps to heal soft tissue damage caused by cosmetic surgery. It breaks down dense, fibrous tissue to smooth the targeted area of skin. It also relieves pain, tension and stiffness resulting from surgery to improve healing.

Anti-Pain Solutions and Muscle Relievers
Remaining in a single position for extended periods during recovery causes muscle pain and discomfort. Topical pain-relieving agents can alleviate soreness and stiffness.

Bed Comfort Accessories
Mattress pads and pillows can make healing more comfortable for patients who are confined to bed for extended periods. Proper sleep can significantly help the recovery process.

Bath Chairs, Mats and Benches
Buying a bath chair, non-slip mat or bench before surgery can minimize the risk of slipping or falling in the bath during recovery. Patients who are sedated or tired after surgery have serious risks of these accidents.

After the anesthesia wears off and recovery begins, you might experience some pain. Nearly all post-op liposuction patients experience minor discomfort. The pain medication your doctor prescribes after surgery should alleviate this discomfort. Intense or long-lasting pain or swelling could be abnormal and should be discussed with your doctor.

Recovery time can span from a few days to a few months, depending on the amount and location of the surgery, and the age and health of the patient.

Less than a week after the procedure, most people can move normally or even return to work. Relieve pain and soreness with medication, or just by walking around. Most people are able to remove their compression garments and resume normal activities in a few weeks.

In the months after liposuction, swelling will continue to go down, making the final results more apparent. Skin around the targeted area still might appear loose. It should tighten within six months, depending on your skin elasticity. It’s important to carefully monitor your wounds for signs of infection during this critical period. See your doctor for follow-up appointments to ensure safe healing.

You  should see immediate results after surgery, but the initial change might seem minimal. This is a normal result of swelling and bruising. Wearing a compression garment will enhance long-term results. Maintaining a healthy diet and regular exercise routine after recovery also improves long-term effects.

You now know how to get on the road to liposuction recovery. Now learn about liposuction on specific areas of the body, including thigh liposuction.

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