Your Guide to Liposuction Recovery

Liposuction is one of the top 5 cosmetic surgeries performed in the United States, with over 210,000 liposuction procedures performed in 2020. Liposuction is a safe, effective surgical option for people looking to remove stubborn areas of unwanted fat that do not respond to exercise and dietary changes.

Common areas of the body that can be treated with liposuction include the abdominal region or “tummy”, back, flanks, hips, and thighs. Liposuction can also be used to sculpt areas under the chin and neck. Below are key points to help you prepare for surgery.

1. A Few Things To Keep In Mind

One of the most important things when considering liposuction surgery is that you find a board-certified plastic surgeon with experience. Dr. Mahabir and Dr. Kurtovic are both board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, with years of experience in performing liposuction. During your consultation, they will review the details of the procedure and recovery, as well as create a customized treatment plan. It is important that you have realistic expectations, as results will vary based on body type and age. 

2. The Recovery Process

Liposuction surgery is most often performed in the outpatient setting, and you will go home the same day. After surgery, it’s crucial to follow the post-operative instructions given to you by your surgeon. You can anticipate some discomfort after surgery, as well as bruising and swelling. You will be prescribed pain relievers to help with discomfort as well as antibiotics to reduce the chances of infection.

It is important that you take it easy in the first few weeks after surgery to minimize bleeding risk. You will need to modify your activities, and will not be allowed to exercise for 4-6 weeks after surgery or until cleared by your surgeon. We recommend our patients start walking right away, as daily walks are helpful to enhance circulation and minimize blood clots.

We also recommend that our patients wear a compression garment on the treated area. Compression helps reduce swelling and can help contour your body to its new shape. It takes several months for swelling to subside and the final results to appear.

3. Helpful Tips

Below are some tips that can help give your body what it needs for a successful recovery after surgery:

• Drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.
• Avoid any bending, straining, or lifting for at least the first two weeks.
• Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean meats, vitamins and minerals is necessary to promote healthy healing after surgery.
• Take a walk. Movement is crucial, although we advise starting slowly for the first several days.

Schedule an Appointment

If you are interested in liposuction surgery in the Tucson, Arizona area, contact Tucson Plastic Surgery to set up your initial consultation. Our experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Kurtovic and Dr. Mahabir, look forward to meeting you. Call us at 520-415-2420 or complete our online form to set up your first appointment.