Liposuction is a cosmetic treatment that helps people get rid of unwanted fat in certain areas of their bodies. Having successfully treated many liposuction clients, we realise that they are often concerned about the recovery process. Although the surgery itself is relatively quick, compared to non-invasive body contouring techniques like laser liposuction, the recovery process can be longer and requires some patience.
In this article, we provide a detailed timeline for liposuction recovery, so you know what to expect during each stage. We also share some tips that can improve your recovery.
Liposuction is a procedure used to remove excess fat from specific areas of the body, such as the tummy, hips, thighs and arms. During the treatment, your doctor will use a cannula to suction out stubborn fat from targeted areas.
How this is performed depends on the type of liposuction.
Each person’s recovery will differ based on factors such as the scope of the surgery, the client’s overall health, and compliance to post-operative care instructions. The following timeline provides a rough picture of what you can expect.
The first three days following liposuction should be spent resting and avoiding intense activities. We recommend that you lie down, limit your movements, and walk only when necessary.
You will likely be given a compression garment to wear, and small drains (tubes) may be placed at incision sites to avoid fluid buildup. Care instructions for your incisions and drain sites will be provided by your doctor. Make sure to follow them carefully.
You may experience discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treated areas during this period. These side effects can be properly treated with prescription pain medications and consistent use of your compression garment. The compression garment is designed to reduce swelling, support tissues and promote recovery.
During the first week of liposuction recovery, you may still feel discomfort, swelling, and bruising. These will gradually subside in the second week. Although you will feel better in the second week, it is essential that you continue wearing your compression garments and follow the surgeon’s post-operative care instructions.
While it’s important to get adequate rest, it’s equally crucial to start moving around as soon as you feel comfortable. You can take short walks around the house. This can help prevent blood clots and promote faster healing.
Most patients can return to work one or two weeks after liposuction. Those with sedentary jobs or jobs that can be done from home may be able to resume work sooner than those with physically demanding occupations.
After one month, you should notice a significant improvement in your overall recovery. With your doctor’s approval, you can gradually reintroduce exercise into your everyday routine.
Your swelling and bruising should have significantly decreased, and the incision sites should be well-healed.
At this stage of liposuction recovery, you may begin to see improvements in your body contour. However, it is essential to remember that the final results may take several months to become fully visible.
We advise you to continue attending follow-up appointments with your doctor to monitor your progress and address any concerns or questions you have. Patients who follow their surgeon’s instructions and take proper care of themselves can expect to see significant improvements in their overall appearance and well-being.
By the sixth week of your recovery, most of your bruising and swelling should have subsided. Whatever remaining swelling and bruising you have should clear up in the coming months.
You will probably not require your compression garments anymore. You should also be able to exercise without restrictions, unless specified by your doctor.
At this milestone, you can expect to see the final results of your liposuction procedure and admire your newly contoured body shape.
Besides adhering to your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and being patient, you can also enhance your healing process with the following tips.
A healthy, balanced diet is essential for proper healing after liposuction. We recommend you focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods, such as fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains, to provide your body with the necessary building blocks for recovery.
To avoid inflammation that could impede your body’s healing, avoid processed foods and foods high in sugar.
Drinking plenty of water throughout the liposuction recovery process is crucial for maintaining overall health and promoting healing. You should aim to consume at least eight glasses of water per day, and also incorporate water-rich fruits and vegetables into your diet for additional hydration.
Getting enough sleep and allowing your body to rest is essential for a successful liposuction recovery. You should aim for at least seven to nine hours of sleep per night and avoid overexerting yourself during the day.
While strenuous activities should be avoided during recovery, engaging in light movement, such as walking, can help promote circulation and prevent complications, such as blood clots. That said, you should always listen to your body if you feel uncomfortable and avoid pushing yourself too hard.
While liposuction permanently removes fat cells, without effort to maintain your results, new fat cells can still grow. So, yes – you can still develop body fat after the procedure.
Maintaining your results for years to come will require continued effort on your part as well as a commitment to a healthy lifestyle.
A well-balanced diet, as with improving your recovery, is essential for maintaining liposuction results in the long term. It will keep you from gaining weight and help you maintain your improved weight. Focus on consuming nutrient-dense foods and avoid overeating.
Regular exercise is crucial for maintaining a healthy body and maintaining your weight. A combination of aerobic and strength training workouts would be beneficial for your physical fitness and regulating your metabolism.
High stress levels can lead to weight gain and negatively impact overall health. Chronically elevated cortisol levels due to stress can increase your appetite. Furthermore, it has also been associated with increased deposition of fat in the tummy area.
We advise you to keep your stress levels in check by adopting stress-management techniques such as meditation and deep breathing.
Regular follow-up appointments with your surgeon are essential for monitoring progress and addressing any concerns or complications that may arise during your liposuction recovery. It is best that you communicate openly with your healthcare provider and report any changes in your health or appearance.
The cost of liposuction in Singapore will vary depending on:
Due to the extent of customisation that goes into a liposuction, the cost of treatment will also be unique to each individual.
During your appointment, a cost breakdown will be provided so that you are aware of the prices involved. For example, a tummy liposuction, one of the most common treatments sought after by individuals in Singapore, can cost around $4,000.
If you are considering liposuction treatment in Singapore, one important factor is the credentials and experience of the surgeon performing the procedure.
Look for a board-certified surgeon with extensive experience in performing liposuction. You can also find client reviews and testimonials to understand their expertise.
SL Aesthetic Clinic is a provider of cosmetic solutions in Singapore. Our team of board-certified doctors have years of experience performing liposuction treatments for people of various sizes and ages.
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