Recovery Tips for Liposuction

If you have recently undergone liposuction or are considering doing so, our experienced specialists have compiled some helpful liposuction recovery tips to have you back up on your feet. Like any medical procedure, recovery plans are created on a case-by-case basis and need to be discussed with the specialist performing your procedure. If any of our tips differ from your specialist’s recommendations, we suggest you consult with them before altering your scheduled recovery plan.  

How Long Does It Take to Recover From Liposuction?

Though liposuction is an outpatient procedure, it is more invasive than other cosmetic procedures such as lip enhancements and rhinoplasty. Recovery times from liposuction procedures vary based on the extent of the procedure and the age and overall health of the patient. In most cases, you will be able to return to all normal activities three to six weeks after the procedure.  

Diet and Exercise

Following your procedure, be sure to keep a healthy diet, which will give your body the nutrients to recover quickly. Drinking plenty of water is a good health tip in general but is vital to your body when it is trying to heal.   

While strenuous activity needs to be avoided for at least a few weeks after your procedure, short walks and light exercise can help shorten recovery time within a full day of your procedure. Light exercise, proper nutrition, and hydration lower the risk of blood clots. Exercise additionally promotes prolonged and healthier sleep patterns, an integral part of any recovery. Try to get a minimum of seven to eight hours of sleep following your surgeries to give your body time to recover.   

A healthy diet also means avoiding cigarettes and alcohol for a few weeks after your procedure. These substances slow the body’s ability to heal and can have adverse effects with prescribed medications.   

Lymphatic Massages

Lymphatic massages have been shown to decrease both discomfort and recovery time of patients post-liposuction. These massages help reduce toxins in the body, and when performed weekly, can show great results. Lymphatic massages additionally boost the immune system, which lowers the possibility of infections.  

Things to Avoid After Liposuction

As stated above, cigarettes and alcohol are two things to steer clear of during your recovery. In addition to avoiding these substances, also avoid baths and sitting in still water which, in general, can be damaging and promote infections. When washing oneself, it is best only to take showers.  

It is also best to avoid tight or irritating garments after your procedure. Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing hangs away from the surgical area and will increase your comfort levels after surgery.  

Be In Contact With Your Specialists

You should still be in regular contact with your specialist following your procedure. You will be informed of actions to take post-surgery and concerning symptoms to watch out for. Pay attention to the advice your specialist gives you, and be sure to follow their advice as closely as possible.  

Picking the Right Specialist

The best way to ensure a speedy recovery is to choose a qualified specialist to perform your liposuction. Dr. Zoran Potparic has over three decades of experience in cosmetic surgery and has performed countless successful liposuction procedures. Contact us today to schedule a consultation with Fort Lauderdale’s industry-leading cosmetic specialist.  

Related Readings:

Should You Get Liposuction?  

What to Expect During Your Rhinoplasty Recovery ​ 

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