How to Recover Smoothly From Liposuction Treatments
As the top requested body contouring procedure, liposuction can change the lives of its patients. Men and women benefit from the second chance at the body they desire. Liposuction removes the fat deposits that diet and exercise can’t remove, a process that has been refined through advancements in medicine and technology throughout the past few decades. Recovering from liposuction has also been eased through these advancements, but there are even more ways that you can have a smooth recovery process.
Understand the Liposuction Procedure
As a prospective liposuction patient, knowing what to expect from your procedure is an essential first step toward a successful recovery. If you’re familiar with what steps will be taken, you’ll have a better understanding of what needs to heal and how long it will take. During your consultation, your plastic surgeon will talk you through the liposuction surgery and the specifics of your procedure. You’ll have the chance to discuss the problem spots that you’d like to treat. Once your surgery is planned, it’s time to get ready for the day of your procedure.
Liposuction surgery is highly individualized, so your procedure will be unique to your needs. In order to remove fat cells, incisions must be placed at the treatment area so that a cannula or small tube can be inserted. Once inserted, the cannula is used to break apart fat deposits and then suction the unwanted fat cells out. Your surgeon will be able to used specialized techniques for small and large areas to create your desired results.
Plan Enough Time for Liposuction Recovery
Before you head into your surgery, you’ll need to make sure you plan the right amount of time to fully recover before any major commitments or events. Initially after surgery, most liposuction patients spend the first two or three days resting and doing as little as possible. It is typical to experience significant swelling, bruising, redness, and some discomfort. With time, these symptoms will subside and you will feel more able to get up and participate in your regular daily activities, with your surgeon’s approval. During this time, you’ll be able to manage pain and discomfort with pain medication, cold compresses, and rest. The total length of your recovery time will depend on the number of treatment areas addressed during your procedure and the volume of fat cells that must be removed. Talk to your plastic surgeon about the specifics of your surgical recovery so you can give yourself enough time.
Get Ready for Your Liposuction
As you wait eagerly for the date of your procedure to finally arrive, there are a few things you can do that will prepare your body for a smooth and easy recovery. Keep yourself on task with a checklist that will get you ready:
- Eat a healthy diet full of nutrient-rich foods every day
- Exercise regularly to help boost your skin’s elasticity and maintain your body tone
- Avoid gaining or losing weight between your consultation and procedure date, as such changes could affect your surgical plan
- Keep yourself healthy by avoiding anyone exhibiting signs of illness
- Wash your hands regularly to fight off germs
- If you are a smoker, quit before your surgery
- Avoid any medications, vitamins, and supplements that could affect your body’s ability to heal
- Follow your doctor’s instructions for drinking alcohol closely to prevent any interactions
Above all else, your plastic surgeon will give you a clear list of guidelines to follow in the days and weeks before your liposuction surgery. Following these instructions is the best way to guarantee your own health and safety during and after surgery.
Find Your Special Recovery Area
Before you go in for your liposuction surgery, take the time to pick a comfortable spot in your home that will serve as your Recovery Area. This space will be essential during your first 48 hours of critical recovery time, so find a couch, recliner, or bed to spend the time in. Set up this area with pillows, blankets, and your favorite comfortable clothes, plus any additional items you might need. Stock up on any medical supplies and medications, including gauze, cold compresses, your prescriptions, and anything else your surgeon recommends. The idea is to keep everything close by so there’s no need to get up and down. If you live alone, arrange for someone to stay with you in case you need something.
Even if you do have company, don’t forget that you’ll need to stay occupied while you give your body time to heal. Pick up some new magazines or choose a book to read, maybe some crossword puzzles or Sudoku to keep handy. Remember to stash some of your favorite healthy, easy to eat snacks and bottles of water in your Recovery Area. Cut down on trips to the kitchen without going hungry or becoming dehydrated. Choose the foods you eat wisely, like fresh fruit and granola bars, to give your body the fuel it needs to recover.
Plan Your Liposuction Surgery Today
Consult with a plastic surgeon who will guide you through the liposuction procedure and recovery process. Frederick G. Weniger, M.D., F.A.C.S. provides his patients with years of experience and knowledge during one-on-one consultations regarding the surgeries and nonsurgical treatments available at their practice. Dr. Weniger is board certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and a member of The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. He believes good information lies at the heart of success in all of his surgeries and interactions with his patients.
To schedule a consultation for any aesthetic service or other procedures, contact the office of Weniger Plastic Surgery today at (843) 757-0123. They are located at 350 Fording Island Road, Suite 200, in Bluffton, South Carolina.