Liposuction: Know What to Expect During and After Treatment

If you are thinking about getting liposuction, you are probably wondering how the surgery typically goes. It is a good idea to know the basics of this treatment before you get it, which includes knowing what to expect during and after the surgery. This way, you will be prepared for it, even before you see your doctor at the initial consultation.

This procedure is usually an outpatient one, which means that you can go to a clinic for a few hours, as it does not usually take longer than this, and then you can go home. The only reason for a hospital stay is typically if you have complications, which is rare. You will be given anesthesia, after which time the doctor will make a few small incisions in the areas to be treated. A cannula, or tube, will then be inserted, as this tool suctions out the fat during the procedure. Most doctors now insert saline solution so that you lose less blood, experience less swelling, and feel less discomfort than the older dry treatment. This is called tumescent liposuction, and you should be sure to ask your doctor if he or she uses it since it is a rather modern kind of treatment.

Once the surgery is over, you will be put in a support garment while you heal, as this can compress the area and also shield it from injury during recovery. You are expected to wear it for up to a month, though you can take it off while taking a bath or shower. Your doctor should give you instructions on how to bathe while you heal since you have to keep the incision clean without exposing it to possible injury or infection.

You should expect some swelling and bruising in the treated areas as you heal, but these issues should slowly disappear within the first few weeks. Of course, the result will not be obvious for at least a month since the area needs to heal first. In fact, it often takes two or three months to be evident, but the results should be worth the wait. Plan to take off about a week from work, and do not expect to exercise much or participate in strenuous activities for at least three weeks while you recover.

Having an idea of what to expect during and after liposuction is helpful. It will allow you to plan on how much time to take off from work, and how soon to get the treatment. For example, it is advised that you get this surgery at least three months before any events that involve pictures or strenuous activity, as you may not be fully healed until then.