What to Expect After Liposuction

January 24, 2019 DLM Admin


liposuction recovery patient

liposuction recovery patientLiposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world. For years, liposuction has helped men and women achieve slimmer, fitter, firmer and smoother body contours with natural-looking and long-lasting results.

If you are considering liposuction with Dr. Kahlil Andrews at Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, you may have questions about what to expect while recuperating from the procedure. Each recovery is unique. A number of factors influence the experience and length of your recovery, ranging from the treated areas to your pain tolerance and the natural pace of your body’s healing process. With this in mind, scheduling a one-on-one consultation is the best way to learn what your personal recovery might look like and how it may compare to the average recovery described here.

What Happens Immediately After Surgery?

After liposuction is complete, the treatment area is dressed and wrapped in a compression garment to help ease any swelling. Our staff will move you to a recovery room to rest while your anesthesia wears off. When you are alert, you will be given a prescription for oral pain medications and instructions for post-operative care. You will also be asked to schedule a follow-up appointment so Dr. Andrews can ensure your recovery is progressing properly. A friend or family member can then drive you home. They, or another trusted caretaker, should remain with you for the first 24 hours after surgery.

What Happens In The First Few Days After Liposuction?

Plan to take at least a few days away from work and other daily activities as you recuperate from liposuction. It is normal to experience some pain and swelling during this time. Follow Dr. Andrews’ instructions for pain management and continue wearing your compression garment to ensure any swelling is distributed evenly over the area and bruising and swelling are reduced. Take short walks around the room, house or neighborhood to help reduce swelling and prevent the formation of blood clots but avoid more intense physical activity. Rest and stay hydrated to encourage healing. Do not shower until cleared to do so by your surgeon.

What Happens In The First Few Weeks After Liposuction?

Continue using your compression garment as directed by Dr. Andrews. The number of hours the garment should be worn each day will decrease as the recovery period progresses. If you have a desk job, you should be ready to return to work within one week after liposuction. A more physically demanding job may require more time off to avoid straining the treatment area. Dr. Andrews will recommend a timeframe for returning to work based on the extent of your procedure, how quickly your body’s healing process progresses and the type of work you do. Soreness and swelling will subside in the second and third weeks after your procedure, and will be dramatically reduced by four weeks. Plan to avoid strenuous or high-impact exercise for about 2 weeks. Dr. Andrews will oversee your recovery and let you know when you are cleared to resume your usual workout routine.

What Happens Several Months After Liposuction?

It can take up to six weeks for all bruising to resolve. By the 12-week mark, any soreness, tightness or numbness has usually subsided and no forms of activity are off limits. Dramatic improvements will be visible at this point, though you may continue to notice changes for six to 12 months after surgery. Scars from liposuction are generally very small and well-hidden, but they will continue to improve and become less conspicuous over the next year.

How Much Fat Will Be Removed?

Liposuction is a body shaping treatment, not a weight loss procedure. Though it can produce significant cosmetic improvements, you should not expect to lose a dramatic amount of weight. In fact, surgeons follow guidelines that set a maximum limit on how much fat can safely be removed during a single day. The amount that is extracted will ultimately depend on a combination of factors, including your body composition, your desired result and the risk of complications.

Will I Have Scars?

Liposuction is performed using a thin tube called a cannula that is inserted through an incision in the skin to remove subcutaneous fat. Incisions are unavoidable, but they are small and, depending on their location, may be easy to conceal under clothing and most swimsuits. They will become less visible with time. Follow all instructions for post-operative care to ensure the best possible outcome for your scars.

Will Liposuction Get Rid of Excess Skin?

Liposuction is only designed to eliminate unwanted fat, not to treat other body concerns. It will have minimal if any effect on the tightness of your skin and cannot treat cellulite or stretch marks. If you have excess skin you would like removed, surgery (such as a tummy tuck or other lift) is required. Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery also offers noninvasive treatments that can tighten skin after liposuction and laser skin treatments that can reduce the appearance of stretch marks.

Will I See Results Right Away?

While liposuction does remove fat right away, the procedure can cause significant swelling. Your final result will not be visible until the swelling has subsided.

Can The Fat Grow Back?

Fat cells removed by liposuction do not grow back. However, the fat cells that remain can grow larger or smaller with significant weight fluctuations. In general, as long as you maintain a stable weight, your new silhouette will be more or less permanent. Your body will continue to change as you age, as well, but you will have the benefit of a more toned body contour, and it will be easier for you to maintain your figure over time.

What Can I Do to Get The Best Results?

Follow Dr. Andrews’ post-operative recommendations to ensure a healthy and timely recovery. The healing process requires patience and diligent attention to these guidelines to provide optimal results. Wear your compression garment and care for your incisions properly. Watch for signs of complications. Get adequate rest. Return to your normal routine slowly. Attend all follow-up appointments. Remember that liposuction cannot be a substitute for good lifestyle choices. Maintain a healthy diet, stay well hydrated and exercise regularly to ensure your results last.

Body Contouring With Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery

If you have excess fat that refuses to budge despite ongoing exercise and dieting efforts, you may be a candidate for liposuction. Dr. Andrews is an expert in performing body contouring procedures to eliminate unwanted fat and reveal a slimmer, more shapely body. For more information about liposuction, or to find out whether the procedure is right for you, contact Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery at 319-800-6877 to schedule a consultation at one of our locations in Cedar Rapids and Coralville, Iowa.

January 11, 2017

Dear Dr. Andrews,
Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me and my family. You are trustworthy, kind and personable. We really appreciate you and your talent. Thank you!*
5.0
2017-01-11T13:02:59-06:00
Dear Dr. Andrews, Thank you so much for all you’ve done for me and my family. You are trustworthy, kind and personable. We really appreciate you and your talent. Thank you!*

Everything is great!!

Just had my surgery from Dr. Andrews and everything is great!! He is the most kindest Dr. ever!*
5.0
2017-01-22T15:30:46-06:00
Just had my surgery from Dr. Andrews and everything is great!! He is the most kindest Dr. ever!*

You change peoples’ lives!

You change peoples’ lives! Words cannot express how much I love my new girls! Thank you so much for giving me exactly what I wanted. You are amazing!*
5.0
2017-02-24T14:28:06-06:00
You change peoples’ lives! Words cannot express how much I love my new girls! Thank you so much for giving me exactly what I wanted. You are amazing!*

I am a patient at Dr. Andrews!

I am a patient at Dr. Andrews! I highly recommend utilizing their services. Very thorough consultations, educational and informative. They give you lots of options to fit your needs and guide you through it. Amazing staff that is highly trained with the most up to date procedures and tools. I can't say enough about Dr. Andrews and his amazing staff!*
5.0
2016-09-28T15:22:01-05:00
I am a patient at Dr. Andrews! I highly recommend utilizing their services. Very thorough consultations, educational and informative. They give you lots of options to fit your needs and guide you through it. Amazing staff that is highly trained with the most up to date procedures and tools. I can't say enough about Dr. Andrews and his amazing staff!*

June 26th, 2013

Dr. Andrews is an artist. His academic credentials are second to none. You can see that sensibility in every aspect of his practice, and his life. His outcomes are exceptional, and there isn’t a surgeon anywhere that I trust more.*
2015-02-10T19:25:22-06:00
Dr. Andrews is an artist. His academic credentials are second to none. You can see that sensibility in every aspect of his practice, and his life. His outcomes are exceptional, and there isn’t a surgeon anywhere that I trust more.*

May 27th, 2013

I am beyond happy with my results. I had extra skin hanging from my abdomen after gaining weight from pregnancies. Dr. Andrews was compassionate and understanding about how this affected me and my self-esteem.*
2015-02-10T19:25:46-06:00
I am beyond happy with my results. I had extra skin hanging from my abdomen after gaining weight from pregnancies. Dr. Andrews was compassionate and understanding about how this affected me and my self-esteem.*

May 27th, 2013

I can now wear bikinis! I continue to work out and can finally see the results of my hard work. Thank you Dr. Andrews – a California gem in the midwest!*
2015-02-10T19:26:11-06:00
I can now wear bikinis! I continue to work out and can finally see the results of my hard work. Thank you Dr. Andrews – a California gem in the midwest!*

June 1st, 2013

Dr. Andrews is one of the best plastic surgeons I’ve worked with! His patients are very pleased with their results. I highly recommend him!*
2015-02-10T19:26:35-06:00
Dr. Andrews is one of the best plastic surgeons I’ve worked with! His patients are very pleased with their results. I highly recommend him!*

Jan 24th, 2013

Dr Andrews was wonderful!! Great Guy… awesome job on my reconstruction!!*
2015-02-10T19:26:55-06:00
Dr Andrews was wonderful!! Great Guy… awesome job on my reconstruction!!*

Nov 2nd, 2012

I had suffered debilitating Hidradenitis. He gave me the ability to have a normal life again. My scars look amazing and he was able to close with the most beautiful lines! He was such a caring doctor who is so gifted. I hope to follow his practice wherever he may go!*
2015-02-10T19:27:28-06:00
I had suffered debilitating Hidradenitis. He gave me the ability to have a normal life again. My scars look amazing and he was able to close with the most beautiful lines! He was such a caring doctor who is so gifted. I hope to follow his practice wherever he may go!*

Oct 29th, 2012

Dr. Andrews was the absolute best doctor for me - very informative, sensitive, and caring with just the right amount of humor during the appointments.*
2015-02-10T19:27:54-06:00
Dr. Andrews was the absolute best doctor for me - very informative, sensitive, and caring with just the right amount of humor during the appointments.*

Extraordinary doctor

Before saying that you are an extraordinary doctor, I want to tell you that you are an extraordinary human being. Thanks for showing me so much care and concern.*
2015-03-30T12:00:04-05:00
Before saying that you are an extraordinary doctor, I want to tell you that you are an extraordinary human being. Thanks for showing me so much care and concern.*

You Rock!!

I wanted to write you a thank you letter because I would never be able to find the words to say how much I appreciate everything you did for me. Thanks to you I can feel normal and not always worry if people will find out about my problem. I can’t even begin to say thank you enough or to show my gratitude. You’re an amazing person, wonderful doctor, and my hero. All in all, you ROCK!!!*
2015-03-30T12:00:42-05:00
I wanted to write you a thank you letter because I would never be able to find the words to say how much I appreciate everything you did for me. Thanks to you I can feel normal and not always worry if people will find out about my problem. I can’t even begin to say thank you enough or to show my gratitude. You’re an amazing person, wonderful doctor, and my hero. All in all, you ROCK!!!*

You all are the best!

Thank you so much for ALL of your help in my recovery thru “sometimes emotional” journey with my cancer. You all were always professional and took the time with my long list of questions. I can n0t thank you enough! Easter is my favorite time of the year and I pray God will continue to strengthen your gift and skills in healing because you all are the best!*
2015-03-30T12:02:02-05:00
Thank you so much for ALL of your help in my recovery thru “sometimes emotional” journey with my cancer. You all were always professional and took the time with my long list of questions. I can n0t thank you enough! Easter is my favorite time of the year and I pray God will continue to strengthen your gift and skills in healing because you all are the best!*

Amazing!

I’m ecstatic with my new body. It is PERFECT! I can’t even put in wordshow we feel, You are so compassionate unlike any Doctor I’ve met. I realize I’ve been a needy patient and you handled me well. You’ve gone above and beyond with me after hours for medications and issues. Also more quotes than necessary, but you did it! Your work ad attentiveness to my expectations I can’t say enough!! Now to pu the finale pictures in your gallery to show how complete I am now! You are AMAZING! Thank You! It’s been a very long, hard journey! Now to live life with the new ME!*
2015-03-30T12:02:20-05:00
I’m ecstatic with my new body. It is PERFECT! I can’t even put in wordshow we feel, You are so compassionate unlike any Doctor I’ve met. I realize I’ve been a needy patient and you handled me well. You’ve gone above and beyond with me after hours for medications and issues. Also more quotes than necessary, but you did it! Your work ad attentiveness to my expectations I can’t say enough!! Now to pu the finale pictures in your gallery to show how complete I am now! You are AMAZING! Thank You! It’s been a very long, hard journey! Now to live life with the new ME!*

With appreciation

With appreciation for putting me back together!*
2015-03-30T12:02:40-05:00
With appreciation for putting me back together!*

I am forever grateful

I consider myself blessed to be under your care as I navigated the stormy sea of breast cancer diagnosis, surgery, reconstruction, and recovery. I cannot thank you enough and am so pleased with the results! You have all been wonderful, and I will miss seeing you even though I am thrilled to be healed and moving on! The impact you have on patients who are scared and overwhelmed cannot be overstated...and I am forever grateful.*
2015-03-30T12:03:02-05:00
I consider myself blessed to be under your care as I navigated the stormy sea of breast cancer diagnosis, surgery, reconstruction, and recovery. I cannot thank you enough and am so pleased with the results! You have all been wonderful, and I will miss seeing you even though I am thrilled to be healed and moving on! The impact you have on patients who are scared and overwhelmed cannot be overstated...and I am forever grateful.*

Thank You

Thank you. For me, you are as similar as God because you created me again. It’s an amazing feeling. I feel my earlier life back again. Once again thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.*
2015-03-30T12:03:24-05:00
Thank you. For me, you are as similar as God because you created me again. It’s an amazing feeling. I feel my earlier life back again. Once again thank you very much from the bottom of my heart.*

April 12, 2016

Since my hysterectomy, sex has been extremely painful. I suffered from extreme dryness and discomfort. I had no sex drive and was no longer able to experience an orgasm. Until, recently, when a friend told me about Courtney Albritton and the ThermiVa treatment. I have had 2 of the 3 treatments and immediately experienced positive results. I am still in awe of the results I have experienced. The procedure was painless. Until ThermiVa, I had come to the realization that my sex life would no longer be what it once was pre-hysterectomy. I highly recommend this procedure.*
2016-05-05T11:40:35-05:00
Since my hysterectomy, sex has been extremely painful. I suffered from extreme dryness and discomfort. I had no sex drive and was no longer able to experience an orgasm. Until, recently, when a friend told me about Courtney Albritton and the ThermiVa treatment. I have had 2 of the 3 treatments and immediately experienced positive results. I am still in awe of the results I have experienced. The procedure was painless. Until ThermiVa, I had come to the realization that my sex life would no longer be what it once was pre-hysterectomy. I highly recommend this procedure.*
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