Recovery after liposuction

Are you considering liposuction? Good preparation for recovery is essential for a successful healing process. On this page you can read what to expect during the recovery phase.

Plastic surgeons can give various advice about recovery and lifestyle after surgery. The information on this page is based on the working methods of the plastic surgeons in our clinic, Aesthetic Center Jan van Goyen. Are you being treated for liposuction elsewhere? Always consult your own doctor.

Immediately after the procedure

Liposuction is usually performed as day surgery; this means that you do not have to stay overnight with us. After the procedure, you will be taken care of in the recovery room. As soon as you feel well and have been checked by the doctor, you can go home. You are not allowed to drive home yourself, so make sure that someone picks you up.

The treated area may be sensitive, blue and swollen for the first few days. This is completely normal and will gradually subside after about 5 days. You will wear compression garments when you wake up. (compression clothing), which helps reduce swelling and support an even recovery.

Pain relief and cooling

Most patients find the after-pain after liposuction mild and tolerable. You will receive a clear pain pattern containing instructions for the use of pain relief, depending on the treated area. In many cases, paracetamol (1000 mg, 4 times a day) is sufficient for up to 7 days.

Cooling (for example with an ice pack or frozen peas in a washcloth) helps with the swelling.

Compression clothing

After the procedure, you will wear compression garments for 6 weeks on the areas where fat has been removed. This supports recovery and helps to reduce swelling and fluid retention. Your plastic surgeon will inform you about this prior to the procedure, so that you know exactly how to wear the garments.

Sleeping after liposuction

There are no fixed recommendations for sleeping positions after liposuction, but it is advisable to lie as comfortably as possible for the first few days, avoiding the treated area.

The recovery during the first weeks

The first week it is important to take it easy. You can often resume light office work after just one day. This means that you can quickly return to work if you have a sedentary job. Depending on the type of work and the extent of the procedure, you can also resume light physical work after about one week. Heavier physical work is only permitted after four to six weeks. Do you have a physically demanding job? Consult your plastic surgeon to determine how long you need to take time off work.

After one to two weeks, swelling and tenderness usually decrease noticeably. However, your body is still recovering. Give yourself time and gradually build up your daily activities.

Showering and daily care

You may shower again the day after the procedure. Leave the plasters on until the first check-up. Baths, swimming pools and saunas are not recommended for up to six weeks after the procedure, due to the risk of infection and the inhibition of optimal wound healing.

Activities and mobility

At Aesthetic Center Jan van Goyen we use the following guidelines after liposuction:

• Mobilize: take it easy the first week, light exercise is allowed and even desirable;
• Return to work: office work often after 1 day, heavier work only after 1 week to 6 weeks, depending on the type of work;
• (Intensive) sports: permitted again after 6 weeks, earlier you can perform lighter exercises;
• Misuse: on average after 2 weeks, depending on the treatment area of the liposuction;
• Driving a car: on average after 1 week, provided you feel comfortable and alert;
• Bath, sauna and swimming pool: after 6 weeks.

These guidelines may vary depending on the size of the area where you have undergone liposuction. Your plastic surgeon will always give you personal advice.

Wound care

The plasters remain in place until the first wound check, which takes place after two weeks. The stitches dissolve by themselves and do not need to be removed. The regular check-up follows after 6 to 8 weeks. The surgeon then assesses the recovery and the result.

Tips for a speedy recovery

• Follow the medication schedule and the rules of life that you have been given;
• Wear compression clothing as prescribed, even when you feel better again;
• Avoid smoking and do not drink alcohol: this may hinder wound healing;
• Ensure healthy nutrition, adequate water intake and rest;
• Listen to your body: recovery takes energy, even if you don't always notice it right away.

If you have any questions or concerns about your recovery, please feel free to contact us. Our team of consultants are here to guide you through this process.

When do you contact us directly?

Always watch for signs of infection such as redness, pus, increasing swelling or pain. Although complications are rare, it is important to remain alert. Call us if you experience any of the following symptoms:

– Severe swelling or bleeding;
– Fever above 38.5°C;
– Severe pain, despite the use of painkillers;
– Redness or pus around the wound (possible infection).

We are in urgent need Available 24/7 in case of emergency. Thanks to our collaboration with OLVG we can always offer you access to high-quality care, even outside our opening hours.

More information?

Recovery is the final step of your treatment. Would you like to read more about the consultation and the operation itself? Then click here For more information.