Liposuction: Post-Operative Care

In 2016, cosmetic surgeons performed 414,335 liposuction procedures. This popular form of surgery sucks the fat out of a person’s body. A cosmetic surgeon uses a device that looks very similar to a metal straw. Plastic surgeons utilize the tumescent technique to conduct all modern surgeries.

Once you have made the decision to have this surgery done, it is important to know what will happen after the procedure. You can look how you want to look, but it is a good idea to understand what you should and should not be doing.

Physical Activity

It is a good idea to have someone with you on the day of the surgery. They can help take care of you before the surgery and drive you home afterwards. In the hours after your surgery, it is wise to take it easy. Try to rest.

After 2 to 4 days, you can resume exercise. If you are working out, you should start off with only 25% of your normal workout, and then increase the intensity from there. Those who work at a desk can return within one or two days after the procedure but should expect to be easily fatigued for a few days.

The Compression Garment

Your cosmetic surgeon will give you a piece of clothing called a compression garment. It is vital that you listen to your doctor’s instructions concerning this piece of clothing. The compression garment helps improve the contour of your body, controls swelling, and helps eliminate scarring. In addition, it reduces the risk of seroma.

The garment should fit snugly, but not so snugly that you have difficulty breathing or begin to feel sore. You should wear the garment for at least a few weeks, only taking it off to wash it or to shower. The more compliant you are with the garment, the better your results will be.

Swimming

Pools, hot tubs, and the ocean naturally harbor many different types of bacteria. While it may seem relaxing to take a dip in the pool, you may want to hold off for at least a few weeks after surgery. You can jump in the pool about two weeks after the surgery as long as you do not have any open wounds. The hot tub may beckon you, but you should know that hot water is home of many different sorts of nasty bacteria. Try to avoid hot tubs for at least a month.

Diet

It is a good idea to try to keep as healthy of a diet as you can. Immediately after your surgery, you should try to drink water or juice to stay hydrated. Avoid alcohol for the 48 hours before surgery, and the 48 hours after surgery.

Taking antibiotics with food may help you. This will greatly reduce the chance of infection.

If you are looking for liposuction, learn more about the procedure and how we can help by visiting our liposuction page.

November 8, 2017 12:04 pm
Categories: Liposuction