It has been my pleasure to provide post-op recovery services for our clients over the last 2yrs. I wanted to take time and discuss what to expect and how to maximize your recovery. Abdominoplasty typically requires two weeks of intense recovery and up to two months of healing. Liposuction recovery typically lasts up to 6 weeks. Let's break down the 6 weeks.
During the first few days of recovery, you can expect moderate pain and soreness. Your surgeon will have given you pain medication to make this discomfort manageable, so follow your medication schedule closely.
Limit your activity during this time, your compression garments may restrict your movements some, but it's also important to limit unnecessary activity when possible. It's recommended that you enlist help around the house for these few days, especially if you have young children.
Weeks 1-2
After the initial few days of total rest and moderate pain, you will likely notice a significant reduction in pain and soreness in the week or two following your procedure. Many people can return to work after two weeks, but if you have a particularly physical or demanding job, you may want to schedule additional time off in order to recover more fully.
You will still be required to wear your compression garments 24/7 during this time as well.
Week 1-2 Instruction Recap?
📌 You may shower 48 hours after surgery.
📌 Start walking as soon as possible, this helps to reduce swelling and lowers the chance of blood clots.
📌 Do not drive until you are no longer taking any pain medications (narcotics).
📌 Discuss your time off from work with your surgeon; this varies according to surgery. UMHS Plastic Surgery Aspiration Lipectomy (Liposuction)
Post-Operative Instructions - 2 -
📌 Activities involving the affected sites should be minimized for approximately 2 weeks.
📌 Strenuous exercise and activities such as sports should be avoided for 3-4 weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Weeks 3-5
The 4-week mark is when patients typically no longer feel pain or soreness. You may still see swelling, but this is normal. Swelling can take months to completely subside. At this point, you will likely begin to see visible results as well. Keep in mind that your results will improve as the swelling and bruising continue to heal.
After about four weeks, most people are able to resume light cardio and start getting their weekly lymphatic drainage massages. You will still need to wear your compression garments 24/7.
Why Are Lymphatic Massages So Important?
The lymphatic system is part of the immune system, which protects the body from any changes that could lead to illness and is how your body can stay healthy. The lymphatic system creates and releases white blood cells and other cells in the immune system that find and destroy invaders like viruses or bacteria that may enter the body and cause illness. Lymphatic drainage aims to help the body maintain proper fluid balance, immunity, and blood circulation.
Is lymphatic massage necessary after a tummy tuck?
Lymphatic massage can aid in the healing process of your scars by reducing swelling and helping prevent excess scar tissue from developing during your recovery. Swelling, after any type of cosmetic surgery, is entirely normal and a necessary part of the healing process. Lymphatic massage simply ensures the swelling is healing appropriately and does not contain harmful fluids that may negatively impact your body’s healing response.
Week 6
The majority of bruising and swelling should subside by week six. You will likely no longer need your compression garments at this point, and your activity levels will no longer be restricted unless otherwise ordered by your doctor. By this point, you will likely be able to see the full scope of your liposuction results.
Did you know that liposuction is the second most popular cosmetic surgery treatment? In 2018, surgeons performed over 250,000 liposuction procedures in the United States, so if you're considering liposuction, you're in good company.
While liposuction is quite safe and can help to successfully remove stubborn fat pockets from the body, it's still a surgical procedure that requires care and attention for a proper recovery. Knowing what to expect post-surgery can help make the recovery process all the easier.