Are you considering lipofilling? We understand better than anyone that you want to prepare yourself well for the recovery period. On this page you can read what you can expect from the recovery time after lipofilling.
Plastic surgeons can give different advice about recovery and lifestyle after plastic surgery. The information on this page is based on the working methods of the surgeons at Aesthetic Center Jan van Goyen. Are you being treated elsewhere for lipofilling? Always consult your own doctor.
Immediately after the procedure
After the treatment, once you are fully awake and have been checked by the doctor, you may go home accompanied. You may not drive on the day of the operation, so make sure someone is available to pick you up.
The first few days after the procedure, the treated area may be a little blue, swollen and sensitive. This is normal and usually disappears within one to two weeks.
Pain relief
After the procedure you may experience a sore or pressure feeling. This can be easily treated with paracetamol: 1000 mg, four times a day, up to seven days if necessary. If in doubt about pain relief or other medication, you can always contact the clinic.
Pressure clothing and cooling
After the operation, you will wear special pressure clothing on the area where the fat was extracted. This pressure clothing helps to prevent swelling and contributes to a beautiful and even result. We will give you instructions on how long and how often you should wear this clothing. We also recommend cooling the treated area with an ice pack or a washcloth with ice cubes. This reduces swelling and relieves pain.
When can I return to work after lipofilling?
The first week it is important to take it easy, because the healing process is in full swing and the body needs a relatively large amount of energy for healing. Do you have a sedentary job? Then you could go back to work after one day, but we generally advise taking a week off. Do you have a physically demanding job, for example in healthcare or in a shop? Then you may need to take four to six weeks off, depending on the treated area. Always consult your plastic surgeon, he or she can advise you best on this.
Daily activities
- Shower you may from the second day weather;
- Light housework can you after a week to pick up again;
- Physically demanding jobs may you after four to six weeks to pick up;
- Misuse can usually after two weeks are resumed;
- Bathing, swimming and sauna can you after six weeks plan safely again;
- Intensive sports can you after six weeks resume.
The rules of life after lipofilling can vary, depending on the treated area. You will always receive personal advice from us, because no patient is the same.
When will you contact us?
Although complications are rare, it is important to remain alert. Always contact the clinic if you experience the following symptoms:
– Redness, pus or an unpleasant odor around the wound (possible infection);
– Severe swelling or sudden bleeding;
– Severe pain that does not decrease with painkillers;
– Fever (above 38.5°C).
In case of emergency or urgent questions after the treatment, we are Available 24/7. Because we are a subsidiary of OLVG, you have (if necessary) direct access to the best care in Amsterdam, even outside the opening hours of our clinic.
Tips for a speedy recovery
To ensure your recovery is as quick as possible, our plastic surgeons will give you a few more tips.
- Follow the rules of life: Avoid heavy physical work and intensive sports during the first few weeks.
- Wear the pressure garment as prescribed: This not only provides comfortable support during the healing process, but really contributes to the result.
- Avoid smoking and alcohol: Both smoking and alcohol can delay healing. During the consultation, your plastic surgeon will advise you to stop before surgery, but after surgery it is also advised not to drink and/or smoke for at least 6 weeks.
- Healthy lifestyle: Eat nutritious food, rich in proteins and vitamins, and drink enough water. Also try to exercise enough.
- Listen to your body: Don't force anything and take enough rest. This doesn't mean that you just have to sit still, but you should listen to your body's signals. Your body is recovering for 6 weeks and this means that you need more rest than you are used to.
More information
Recovery is the final step in your treatment. Would you like to read more about the consultation and the operation itself? Then click here For more information.
Doctors
During the no-obligation consultation, you will discuss your wishes and the treatment with the plastic surgeon. We understand that a procedure can be a significant step, so the surgeon is happy to take the time to tell you all about it. Our specialized surgeons are:
