What to Expect When Having Liposuction

Anesthesia: Small areas of liposuction can be done under local or sedation anesthesia, while more extensive liposuction is done under general anesthesia.

Location of Operation: Liposuction is usually performed in the hospital or outpatient surgery center, but can be done in small areas in the office.

Length of Surgery: The procedure time depends on the extent of the liposuction and the number of areas to be treated.

Length of Stay: Liposuction is usually done as an outpatient procedure, but may occasionally require an overnight stay for monitoring of fluid status.

Discomfort: Minimal to mild depending on the number of areas treated and well controlled with pain medication prescribed by the physician.

Swelling and Bruising: Bruising usually resolves in 10-14 days and may be extensive. Swelling usually takes longer to resolve and may persist for 6-8 weeks.

Drains: No drains are used for standard liposuction, but are sometimes used after ultrasonic liposuction. Drainage of pink or blood-tinged fluid from the access incisions is common for the first 24-48 hours.

Bandages: The initial garment is to be worn day and night for two weeks. It is designed to help in contouring the tissues and in aiding the shrinkage of the skin. After the first 2 week period, a second garment is used and worn only during the day time. This garment is less supportive and should be worn for 2-4 weeks.

Stitches: Small skin incisions heal quickly and are closed with one or two small absorbable sutures.

Work: We recommend 2-3 days from work for most patients, but this varies depending on the extent of liposuction, other medical issues, age, and type of work performed.

Exercise: Light activities can be resumed in 1 week and more strenuous exercise can resume in 2-3 weeks as long as lycra or spandex-type garment is worn. By 6 weeks, all activities can be resumed.

Sun Protection: If your scar is exposed while you are outdoors, you should protect it with sunscreen SPF 15 or higher for at least one year to prevent permanent discoloration.

Final Result: Usually seen after 6 months. The tissues need time to reshape and soften as the skin continues to shrink and tighten.

Special Care: Massage is recommended using either manual massage or a small hand held massager. This is done once the bruising has resolved and helps in softening and contouring the tissues. Massage is partially helpful the first 3 months after surgery. NO SMOKING is recommended 4 weeks prior to and at least 4 weeks after surgery to aid in the healing process.

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