How Long Does Healing Take After Liposuction?
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As one of the most transformative and beneficial cosmetic surgeries, it is no surprise that liposuction continues to be among the most sought-after procedures each year. While most men and women considering fat removal surgery are somewhat familiar with the basics of liposuction, you may be wondering exactly how the procedure works, including what to expect during liposuction recovery. Renowned board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgical specialist Dr. Omar Ahmed and the expert team at Omar Ahmed, M.D. are committed to helping patients achieve their ultimate aesthetic goals with advanced liposuction in Pasadena, CA. Furthermore, Dr. Ahmed takes great care to ensure that patients are prepared for the postoperative period and are equipped with all of the tools and knowledge necessary for a speedy, comfortable, and successful recovery after liposuction.
How does liposuction work?
Liposuction, or surgical fat removal, is a minimally invasive procedure designed to remove stubborn fat deposits from various areas of the body when diet and exercise are no longer effective. The procedure itself involves a tiny incision near the treatment site through which a handheld tube – called a cannula – is inserted. Using vigorous motions, the surgeon manually dislodges the fat cells so they can be removed from the body with vacuum-like suction via the cannula. At the conclusion of the case, the incisions are closed and dressed, and the patient is taken to the recovery room. In the majority of cases, liposuction is performed as an outpatient procedure. However, when liposuction is included as part of a larger and more extensive procedure, such as mommy makeover surgery, patients may require an overnight stay in the hospital or surgical facility.
How long is liposuction recovery time?
Almost immediately after liposuction surgery, patients should expect some level of discomfort, bruising, and swelling. These symptoms can be greatly relieved by following Dr. Ahmed’s recovery guidelines, which may include the use of prescription medications and compressive garments.
While the first 24 hours after liposuction should be devoted primarily to rest, patients are then encouraged to begin taking light, brief walks around the house in order to promote proper circulation and reduce the risk of postoperative complications. The majority of patients are able to return to work about 7 – 10 days after liposuction, depending on the nature and extent of their procedure. However, strenuous physical activities – including exercise – will remain off-limits for several additional weeks. After about 3 – 4 weeks, the majority of swelling after lipo should have subsided, and patients will begin to see their stunning new figure taking shape. The final results of liposuction may take several months to become apparent, though, as the residual swelling resolves and the tissues fully heal and settle.
Helpful tips and guidelines to make your liposuction recovery as quick and comfortable as possible include:
- Follow your surgeon’s postoperative instructions closely
- Attend all follow-up appointments
- Get plenty of rest
- Engage in light, brief walks around the house
- Avoid strenuous physical activity
- Eat a healthy, balanced diet
- Stay hydrated
- Avoid high-sodium foods and beverages
- Wear compression garments as directed
Will I have loose skin after liposuction?
Loose skin is one of the most frustrating potential liposuction side effects, though it can usually be avoided by choosing a knowledgeable and experienced plastic surgeon. During your initial consultation with Dr. Ahmed, he will thoroughly examine your areas of concern and carefully evaluate your skin elasticity. Ideal candidates for liposuction should have good remaining skin elasticity in order to avoid having loose skin after the procedure, which occurs when significant skin laxity prevents the skin from contracting to match the body’s new contour. Patients with more pronounced skin laxity or thin, weak, wrinkled skin may be better suited to a combination liposuction plus lift (skin removal) surgery.
How long does liposuction last?
One of the most exciting aspects of liposuction is that the fat taken during surgery is removed from the body. However, patients must keep in mind that future weight gain can cause the remaining fat cells to become enlarged. Additionally, brand-new fat cells can form in an area previously treated with liposuction. For this reason, men and women considering liposuction should be committed to maintaining a healthy, stable weight in order to preserve their liposuction results for as long as possible.
Get the slim, sculpted, stunning figure of your dreams with fast-recovery liposuction in Pasadena, CA
If you are worried about extended downtime after liposuction, you may be pleasantly surprised to learn that liposuction recovery can be quicker than you think. To learn more about the compelling benefits of liposuction for long-lasting fat removal, call the knowledgeable team at Omar Ahmed, M.D. to schedule your private consultation with award-winning board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgical specialist Dr. Omar Ahmed today. We look forward to helping you get the trim, beautiful body you deserve with Pasadena, CA liposuction!