The Do’s and Don’ts After Liposuction

Liposuction is the second most frequently performed cosmetic surgery procedure in the world. It removes stubborn excess fat from specific body parts, such as the neck, hips, thighs and arms, to give you the desired improved silhouette. The first thing to know is that liposuction is primarily used to refine and sculpt the figure; it is not a weight-loss procedure.

To maintain the best results from your liposuction, you should follow these guidelines:

What to do

• Wear your compression garments after surgery and follow all post-operative instructions. Compression garments help your skin to compress over the space where the fat cells are, helping to give the area a smooth appearance.
• Try to continue exercising after your doctor has given you the go-ahead. By continuing to eat and exercise after surgery, you’ll maintain your weight at a healthy level and improve your recovery.
• During the first two weeks after surgery, maintain a gentle activity, such as slow walking. This allows your body fluids to drain from the surgical site and helps prevent complications after surgery.

What not to do

• Do not lift heavy objects or bend over for the first few days after the procedure.
• Don’t expect to see your results on the day of the procedure. You may experience swelling, and compression garments will block your view anyway. Wait a few days for the swelling to subside and the garments to be removed before assessing your new appearance. Remember that the skin will continue to tighten over the affected area for a few weeks after the operation.
• Don’t smoke! Smoking can delay your recovery because it lowers oxygen levels in the blood, and your body needs oxygen to heal.
• Do not expect to become pregnant soon after the procedure.