Liposuction may be performed as an outpatient procedure, or you may choose to stay in the hospital overnight. If you choose to go home, you will spend an hour or two in the recovery room prior to being released in the company of a friend or family member. We also have a private duty nurse available to care for you in the comfort and privacy of your own home if you so choose. Those who have large volume liposuction surgery are expected to stay overnight for further monitoring. CLICK HERE for more general information on Liposuction Surgery.
Day of Surgery – When you wake up from your procedure, you will be in the recovery room, and you will be wearing a compression garment. You should plan to wear the compression garment for four to six weeks following surgery. This controls swelling, conforms the underlying tissue, and aids in skin contraction.
Caregiver – When patients leave the surgery facility to go home, they are usually groggy for about 12 hours or overnight. It is very important to have an adult who can assist you with getting around and taking your medications for at least the first 24 hours.
Drainage – You may notice bloodstained drainage from your incisions for the first 24 hours. This is normal. It is the tumescent fluid that was injected into your tissue at the time of the procedure.
Nausea – Most people are nauseated during the first 24-48 hours. To reduce this, we suggest that you take your nausea pill one hour before taking your pain medication or antibiotics.
Painkillers – You’re likely to feel sore for a few days, but you should be up and around in 24 hours. The prescribed painkillers can control most of your discomfort.
Shower – Remove your dressings and sponges on the third post-operative day. You may now take a shower.
Swelling – Most swelling takes about six weeks to subside.
Driving – It is not safe to drive a car within twenty-four hours of taking pain medication, as your reflexes and alertness may be altered. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing.
Walking – It is still important to start walking as soon as possible usually the evening of surgery. This is the best way to reduce the chance of blood clotting in the legs. Light Exercise- Dr. Agha recommends light exercise to reduce swelling and prevent clotting. Light exercise includes walking, stretching, and moving your arms and legs while sitting. After the first week or two, cardiovascular activities such as riding a stationary bicycle or brisk walking can be initiated. You may gradually advance your exercises as tolerated.
Activities – During the first week after surgery, avoid activities that raise your blood pressure. This could cause bleeding at the operative site, which could result in a hematoma (collection of blood).
Healing – You will begin to feel better after about a week or two and should be back at work within a few days following your surgery.
Follow-ups – Regular check-ups protect against complications.
Emergencies – Some discomfort is expected following your surgery. Be sure to tell us if:
Dr. Siamak Agha, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon, MD, PhD completed his 7 years of medical education at the prestigious University of Cambridge, England.