Liposuction eliminates stubborn fat deposits to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing body contour. The procedure is less invasive than other body-sculpting surgeries, but it does involve some recovery time. We’ll go over the liposuction recovery process, including what you can expect and when you’ll see results.
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Table of Contents
- What Is Liposuction?
- Liposuction Recovery Time: What You Need to Know
- Early Weeks of Liposuction Recovery: What to Expect
- Recovery Tips After Liposuction
- When Will I See My Liposuction Results?
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction removes excess fat from nearly any area of the body. Your surgeon will make tiny incisions in the treatment area to insert a narrow tube called a cannula. The cannula loosens the fat tissue before gently suctioning it out of the body. The incisions are often closed with surgical tape or left open to drain. Because they are so small, visible scarring after your procedure is minimal.
Dr. Urias offers two different liposuction techniques, and the recovery time varies between them:
- Traditional Liposuction: for significant fat removal in larger treatment areas
- Awake Liposuction: for smaller treatment areas and less fat removal
Dr. Urias performs traditional liposuction under general anesthesia, and patients typically have a longer recovery process after this treatment. Awake Liposuction uses a tumescent solution and local anesthetic, requiring less downtime after the procedure.
Liposuction Recovery Time: What You Need to Know
After traditional liposuction, patients typically take approximately two weeks off work to rest and recuperate. Dr. Urias advises patients to wear compression garments 24/7 for the first 4 weeks after liposuction to reduce swelling and promote healing of the treatment area. You may resume regular exercise after about six weeks. Patients may notice swelling for up to 6 months, which will gradually subside during that time.
Since Awake Liposuction is less invasive, the recovery time is also shorter. Most patients can return to work in less than a week, although strenuous exercise is still restricted for up to six weeks. Swelling may last up to 6 months, but often subsides more quickly. Patients are still instructed to wear compression garments for the first four weeks.
Early Weeks of Liposuction Recovery: What to Expect
You can expect your liposuction recovery process to proceed as follows:
Immediately After Your Surgery
Dr. Urias performs his liposuction surgeries on an outpatient basis, meaning you will go home later in the day after your procedure. You will need someone to drive you home and remain with you for at least 48 hours. Throughout the first few days, you will experience swelling, bruising, and some discomfort. Dr. Urias will prescribe oral medication to help keep you comfortable during this time, but most patients switch to over-the-counter medicines soon after their procedure.
Week 1
Dr. Urias advises his patients to get plenty of rest for those first few days to allow the body to begin the healing process. Swelling and bruising may peak by the end of the first week but start to subside thereafter. Your only activity in the first week should be short walks around the house to encourage blood flow. Awake Liposuction patients usually return to work and nonstrenuous activities by the end of this week.
Weeks 2–6
The recovery process is in full swing by week two, with swelling and discomfort continuing to improve. By the end of the second week, most traditional liposuction patients can return to work and nonstrenuous activities. At the end of the fourth week, patients may stop wearing their compression garments, and by the sixth week, most can resume their exercise programs.
Recovery Tips After Liposuction
Throughout the liposuction recovery time, patients can take steps to make the process more comfortable and efficient:
- Wear your compression garment as instructed
- Take all your medications as prescribed
- Avoid smoking and alcohol throughout the recovery process
- Use ice and anti-inflammatory medications for swelling
- Use scar-minimizing products once healing has begun
- Get plenty of rest during the first week
- Eat healthy foods and drink plenty of water to stay hydrated
- Wear loose-fitting clothing to ensure your comfort
- Avoid strenuous activities until you get the okay from Dr. Urias
When Will I See My Liposuction Results?
Patients may begin to see their new body contours after a couple of weeks, as swelling and bruising subside. Full results may not be apparent for a few months as residual swelling continues to resolve. Your liposuction results should be permanent as long as you maintain a healthy weight after your procedure.
Ready to Learn More About Liposuction in Orange County?
Orange County liposuction is a popular body-contouring procedure due to its dramatic, long-lasting results. Dr. Urias specializes in all types of body contouring procedures, including liposuction. To learn more about your body sculpting options, call our Orange County office at (714) 844-6334 or complete our online contact form.