Liposuction Recovery Tips from Plastic Surgeons
As expected, in the weeks after liposuction, patients may feel discomfort and have difficulty getting used to their new body. New York plastic surgeon David P. Rapaport says the most important point here is “staying one step ahead of the pain from the start”. In this way, after liposuction “we can have a better recovery process overall”. Plastic surgeons' recommendations for the recovery process after liposuction are set out below.
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Toggle1) Return to exercise as soon as possible, but gradually.
While doctors may mention different time frames, most experts agree that we should return to exercise as soon as possible, but slowly. According to Houston, Texas plastic surgeon Dr. Henry A. Mentz, "For the first one to two weeks, your physical activity can increase gradually. Light exercise can be started from the third week, but strenuous exercise should be avoided for around six to eight weeks after surgery." Dr. Rapaport says patients should stretch frequently before returning to the gym, and encourages his patients "to return to exercise usually within a week, preferably at a low pace within three to five days". He says patients should wear a compression garment when returning to high-impact activities such as running.
2) Wear a compression garment.
Newport Beach, CA plastic surgeon Dr. Sanjay Grover says it is beneficial to wear a compression garment for a certain period. Dr. Mentz also says he advises his patients "to wear a compression garment for at least six to eight weeks after surgery".
3) Use foam padding.
”Some surgeons use foam padding in addition to the compression garment to reduce post-operative swelling or fluid build-up”, says Dr. Grover. He adds that foam padding also helps reduce any bruising that may occur.
4) Try having lymphatic drainage massage.
Most experts recommend having lymphatic drainage massage after the operation. "We support lymphatic drainage massage after surgery," says Dr. Mentz. Before booking a massage, ask your doctor about the most suitable time after surgery.
5) Have radiofrequency treatment.
Dr. Mentz recommends that patients have lymphatic drainage massage and radiofrequency treatment such as ThermiSmooth at the same time. This treatment "helps reduce swelling, soften scar tissue, tighten the skin, relieve discomfort and generally speed up the recovery process."
6) Keep walking.
"Getting up and about early in the process is beneficial for preventing fluid build-up in the legs or ankles," said Dr. Grover. He added that it would also help minimise the likelihood of deep vein thrombosis.
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