At Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre, our team meets with each patient individually to help them prepare for their liposuction procedure, including their recovery. Knowing what to expect after liposuction can help ensure that you achieve your desired body contouring results. Here, we explain everything you need to know about the recovery and results you can expect with liposuction.

Some Side Effects and Discomfort to Be Expected

Mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising are normal immediately after liposuction procedures. Prescription medication can help ease discomfort, and wearing a compression garment can help reduce swelling and support the healing tissues. The majority of swelling, bruising, and discomfort will disappear after the first two weeks, at which point most patients are able to return to work.

Scarring After Liposuction

During liposuction, incisions are made in order to remove excess fat. Any time an incision is made in the skin, a scar will appear. The good news is that scars from liposuction are typically small. What’s more, an experienced plastic surgeon places incisions on natural body creases or on areas that can be concealed by clothing. With good post-op care (e.g., protecting your healing scars from sun damage, not smoking), your scars should fade over time.

When to Expect Results

While the majority of swelling and side effects disappear one to two weeks after surgery, it can take up to a year for your final results to become visible. As the swelling goes down, results will continue to improve and become more apparent.

Maintaining Your Svelte New Physique

Since liposuction removes fat cells and the cells cannot regenerate once eliminated from the body, the results of liposuction are considered to be permanent. That being said, the fat cells that remain can grow, resulting in weight gain after liposuction. The best way to prolong your slimmer physique after liposuction is to eat a healthy diet and exercise regularly. Most patients are able to resume their normal exercise routine at the six- to the eight-week mark of recovery. However, everyone heals at a different pace. Your surgeon will provide you with an accurate timeline detailing when you can resume exercise based on your personal healing progress.

To learn more about liposuction and discuss your body contouring goals, schedule a personal consultation with Plastic Surgery Group at City Centre. Contact our Surrey office today.