It’s important to note that everyone is different. No two patients will ever have the same recovery time, processes, and results. That being said, this is a general guide to what you can expect after your liposuction procedure. If you’d like a guide to the entire process, here is a full breakdown of the liposuction procedure which details everything from cost and procedure to frequently asked questions.
In the first two or three days, it’s completely normal to have fluid discharge or leaks from your incisions. You can also expect some swelling, bruising, and soreness in the operated area. You will most likely be required to keep your compression garments on 24/7 and refrain from bathing, swimming, or otherwise immersing yourself in water.
Discomfort is very common, so stay as relaxed and stress-free as possible. Avoid any exercise or strenuous activity. Instead, take short walks around the house often to prevent blood clots and reduce swelling. Make sure to care for your incisions and monitor your body for any possible signs of complications.
Depending on your healing process, full recovery could take anywhere from a couple weeks to a couple months. However, you’ll already be able to work by the 1st week after your liposuction. Compression garment use will be reduced to around 12 hours a day.
After around three weeks, the operated area will probably still show signs of bruising or swelling, but it’s nothing to worry about. By the 4-6 week mark, you can resume your regular daily activities like cleaning, exercising, and working. It’s still recommended to avoid taking extended baths or soaks in the pool since this increases the chance of infection.
It’s very common to get antsy during this period, but it still could be several months before the swelling disappears.
You should see immediate results with liposuction, but due to the bruising and swelling, you won’t get the full impact of your new body until it has fully healed. The swelling subsides and compression garments are deemed unnecessary usually after three months. Once this happens, you’ll be able to enjoy and show off your more shapely silhouette.
The results of liposuction are permanent. However, keep in mind that you can still gain weight. In fact, a study has shown that 50% of participants who got liposuction gained the body weight back in a year. You can keep your numbers low by eating healthy and exercising frequently.
The goal is to be able to maintain a “six pack” stomach, you have to avoid common post-liposuction pitfalls such as weight gain and the accumulation of excess fat in other parts of your body to compensate.