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| Liposuction Post Op Instructions |
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I will meet you in the prep and holding area in the operating area prior to going back to the operating room. We will discuss the areas to be liposuctioned and mark them. After this is done the anesthesiologist usually gives you some sedation to help you relax. When the surgery is finished you will go to the recovery room for about an hour. Friends or family will be able to see you when you are fully awake.
- Compression garments are placed at the end of the operation to minimize discomfort and swelling, and to help contour the skin. A Velcro abdominal binder is placed for torso procedures and long "biking" pants for leg procedures. They should be worn snuggly and continuously for at least two weeks. You can purchase new ones through my website if you like.
- Oozing is normal from the incision sites for several days. Usually it is a thin bloody fluid. Gauze or Maxi pads can be used to soak up this drainage over the incisions as needed. It is okay to wash them. Leg garments can be difficult to place back on during the first few days.
- Pain varies significantly with liposuction depending on the amount and body areas that were treated. Use your prescribed pain medication as needed. Most people will not need narcotic pain relief a week or two after surgery.
- Bruising, even significant bruising is common around the liposuctioned areas. It is also common for the bruising to settle into areas remote from the liposuction. Most of it will be faded in two to three weeks.
- It is okay to shower in two days. Many people will experience dizziness during that first shower so have someone nearby if necessary.
- Your first post op visit is usually around five to seven days. This is when the sutures will be removed.
- Liposuction causes a lot of swelling. It may even seem like nothing was done since the removed fat has been replaced with this swelling. It takes three to four months for the final contour to occur. It is also common for the swelling to be cyclical - less in the morning and more in the evening as you've been up and about. Be patient!
- Numbness, itching, or a mild crawling feeling are normal in the liposuctioned areas. This typically resolves in several weeks but can last even a few months until sensation returns to normal.
- The time to resumption of your normal activity varies. It is best to begin your daily routine as soon as possible. Your body will tell you when you are ready for vigorous exercise.
- Please call the office for any other questions or concerns you may have at 302-888-0508.
For additional information on Liposuction, visit the
American Society of Plastic Surgeons for this procedure.
