Liposuction is an effective treatment that can help you contour your body. In fact, during the past year, it has become the second most popular procedure after eyelid surgery. It helps you address stubborn pockets of fat better than exercise and dieting can, as it suctions the excess fat through a microcannula. However, since it is a surgical procedure, you can expect some recovery time for the next few days.  

Fall is the ideal time to go through this recovery, as it offers more opportunities for downtime. It’s also cooler, which leads to fewer complications caused by sweat or high heat. Still, it’s important to know what you should expect. This blog will offer some insight so that you are prepared when you book the first consultation.

What Really Happens During Liposuction?

During tumescent liposuction, Dr. Ariel Ostad will place you under local anesthesia. He will make small incisions in discrete areas and insert a thin tube (i.e., the cannula) to take out the excess fat. 

Dr. Ostad uses an advanced technique for liposuction that involves a tumescent solution, which swells and firms the fat, making it easier to remove. 

The incisions can be created in numerous areas, such as your abs, flanks, hips, upper arms, thighs, buttocks, neck, and under your chin. Based on your goals/concerns, we can help create a customized treatment plan to cater to your goals. 

Timeline for Tumescent Liposuction Recovery

Liposuction recovery is gradual, with most people finding it tolerable and easily manageable. This is even better with tumescent liposuction, as the bleeding is reduced to a minimum to prevent inflammation. For the most part, here’s what you can expect:

1. First Week: Post-Op Phase

The first post-op week has perhaps some of the most noticeable recovery symptoms. Expect some swelling, soreness, and bruising, which can be controlled with the occasional extra strength Tylenol. 

2. Second to Third Week: Improvement

The second to third week is generally when most of the swelling goes down and you start seeing subtle changes. The majority of patients notice that their recovery symptoms have diminished by 41.6% after the second week. 

You might still have some bruising and stiffness, but you should be able to move around more easily. You should be able to return to your normal work and exercise routine, but make sure you get clearance from Dr. Ostad. 

3. Fourth to Sixth Week: Full Recover

By the end of the fourth to sixth week, most of your energy should already be back. Still, you may notice the occasional swelling and firmness, as these usually take the longest to recover from. 

The final reveal of the results can take three to six months to show after you’ve achieved full recovery.



Key Things to Remember During Recovery

The liposuction recovery is straightforward, but you should still take the steps to help it along. Here are a few tips to remember:

• Wear your compression garments. They reduce the swelling and minimize fluid buildup while helping the skin retract. Since you’re getting the procedure in the fall, it’s easier to hide them under your clothes. 
• Use cold compresses and lymphatic drainage massages. These can reduce the inflammation and swelling, speeding up the recovery process.
• Be careful with exercises. Walking is good, as it promotes good blood circulation, but intense exercise can make the swelling worse. Wait around three to four weeks before you start again. 

To make your recovery as smooth as possible, you should stay in contact with Dr. Ostad. 

Schedule Your Tumescent Liposuction Treatment Today!

Tumescent liposuction can help you reach your body sculpting goals, but proper aftercare is the key to the best results. It’s important to follow Dr. Ostad’s recovery guidelines so that everything is as smooth as possible. Schedule an appointment today and start your liposuction journey!
To learn more about liposuction, contact Dr. Ariel Ostad at 212-517-7900. He can offer all the information you need to ensure you go through a smooth recovery. You can also fill out the provided online contact form, and we will get in touch with you shortly.