Liposuction is one of the most preferred aesthetic operations in the world. Every year, hundreds of thousands of people shape their bodies with liposuction and get rid of their stubborn fat permanently. Despite such effects, the postoperative period is quite sensitive. There are many things that you should consider to complete the recovery period smoothly. In the rest of our article, you can find the answer to the question of how long the liposuction recovery period is and other details on the subject.
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Periodic Liposuction Recovery Process
After liposuction, patients generally do not have to be in bed. If there has been a different complication or a very extensive operation, you may be kept under observation at the hospital for a couple of nights. But this rarely happens.
When leaving the hospital after the operation, it is important to have a companion with you. You will need help, especially on the first day. The subsequent recovery process can be explained step by step as follows:
The First Days
A compression garment will be provided by your doctor to wear in the treated area after surgery. You should use this garment for the specified time and never take it off. Also, if elastic bandages are provided, use them as per the instructions. Elastic bandages and compression garments prevent swelling in the procedure area and contribute to the healing process.
Drains can be attached to the operation area. Their purpose is to expel the liquid inside. Thus, a more effective fight against swelling is possible. You will be informed by your doctor about how to use the drains.
You may have mild to moderate pain in the first days after leaving the clinic. You can get rid of these by using pain killers prescribed by your doctor. Also, if a different medicine has been prescribed, be sure to use it regularly.
You should move as little as possible in the first days. You should rest in the recommended position. Therefore, remember that you may need a companion for household chores.
1st-2nd Weeks
In 1st-2nd weeks after the operation, your pain will be gone to a great extent. If you have a non-tiring job, you can easily return to work. However, if your job is heavy and tiring, you should rest for a while and take time off from work. During this period, continue to follow your doctor’s instructions and wear the compression garment.
3rd-7th Weeks
In this period, the pains will completely disappear. However, swelling may continue for a while. Please remember that it takes a few months for the swelling to heal completely. Therefore, you should know that swelling is a normal symptom and have little patience.
In this period, the first results of the operation begin to appear. Besides, if your doctor approves, you can start light exercises. However, you should continue to stay away from heavy and tiring exercises.
7th Week and After
You can now stop wearing the compression garment. The bruising and swelling will be gone to a great extent. However, there may be some swelling left, which is normal. The results regarding the surgery have become clearer. After this phase, you can return to your normal daily routine and exercises.
What Should Be Done for Fast Recovery After Liposuction?
Things you do and consider in this period will lengthen or shorten the recovery period. To speed up the healing process, you need to:
Consume Water
During this period, consume 2-2.5 liters of water daily. Hydration is one of the most important elements of recovery.
Eat Healthily
Make sure that the foods you consume in this period are healthy, fresh, and nutritious. This will contribute greatly to your liposuction healing process.
Ask for Help
It will be difficult for you in the first week after surgery. Ask for help from a friend or relative in this period. Get help with children and household chores. Try to rest as much as possible, especially right after the surgery.
Walk
Walking can be considered mild exercise. When you walk, your blood flow is regulated and this reflects positively on your healing process.
Have a Rest
Make sure you rest after surgery. Do not tire yourself unnecessarily. Stay in the position you are told.
Avoid These for Sure During Liposuction Healing Process!
After liposuction, you should not do the following:
Don’t be dehydrated
You may forget to drink the water due to the fatigue and pain of the surgery. However, water consumption is extremely important for both expelling the drugs given for anesthesia from the body and making up the water you have lost. Besides, drinking plenty of water has positive effects on swelling.
Don’t Stay Stable
Since you will be tired after the operation, you should rest. However, you should walk at regular intervals. The reason for this is to accelerate blood flow and prevent blood clot formation. Do not ignore this point.
Don’t Use Blood Thinners
Be careful not to use blood thinners both before and after surgery. Your doctor will make the necessary warnings about it. These types of medications can cause bleeding that will be dangerous for you.
Don’t Tire Yourself
Avoid heavy and strenuous work and exercises after surgery. These types of activities increase your blood pressure and as a result, bleeding may occur in your surgical area.
Don’t Take a Bath
Your operation area mustn’t get wet. If your doctor has used a waterproof dressing, he will inform you about this.
Don’t Take Off the Compression Garment
Do not take off the compression garment, which is one of the most important elements of the liposuction healing process, until your doctor approves.