Tumescent Liposuction Recovery

Tumescent Liposuction Recovery: What to Expect and How to Care for Your Results

Table of Contents

Tumescent liposuction is one of the most commonly performed liposuction procedures, with many benefits to it. Still, before you decide to undergo this surgery, you should learn about tumescent liposuction recovery time and what you can expect from that process.

Tips for a Successful Tumescent Liposuction Recovery

TipDescription
Wear compression garmentsCompression garments help reduce swelling and support the treatment area as it heals. Follow your doctor’s instructions on how long to wear the garments.
Take prescribed medicationsYour doctor may prescribe pain medication to help manage discomfort during the recovery period. Be sure to take the medication as directed.
Avoid strenuous activityIt is important to rest and avoid strenuous activity for at least the first few days following the procedure. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on when you can resume normal activities.
Keep the treatment area clean and dryGently clean the treatment area with soap and water and pat dry. Avoid soaking in a tub or swimming for at least two weeks.
Follow up with your doctorBe sure to attend all follow-up appointments with your doctor. They will be able to monitor your progress and address any concerns you may have.
Drink plenty of waterStaying hydrated can help flush toxins out of your body and support the healing process.
Eat a healthy dietA balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and protein can help support your recovery. Avoid fatty or sugary foods that can contribute to swelling.
Apply cold compressesCold compresses can help reduce swelling and discomfort in the treatment area. Apply for short periods of time, several times a day, for the first few days following the procedure.
Avoid smokingSmoking can impede the healing process and increase the risk of complications. If you smoke, it is important to quit as soon as possible before and after the procedure.

What Can You Expect After Tumescent Liposuction?

When it comes to liposuction recovery, it’s important to know what to expect. After tumescent lipo, you will experience slight discomfort and pain when the anesthesia wears off. The pain can be managed with pain medication that your doctor will prescribe. There will be some bruising after lipo as well. You will have to wear a compression garment – it’s designed to keep the swelling under control and ensure the treated areas are contoured to achieve the desired look. Some patients require small drains that prevent fluid build-up by draining off the excess fluids.

How Long Does Swelling Last After Tumescent Liposuction?

Swelling is an expected part of liposuction recovery – it will go down significantly about a week after surgery. However, to see the full results of your lipo, you will have to wait about three to four months. This is when the swelling goes down completely – sometimes, this process can take up to six months. 

How Long Does It Take for Tumescent Fluid to Leave the Body?

Tumescent fluid is an essential part of tumescent liposuction. This is a mixture of saline, epinephrine, and lidocaine that’s injected into the area for treatment before suctioning the fat tissue. Its purpose is to minimize post-op pain and keep bleeding down during the procedure. Additionally, it helps the surgeon to extract fat tissue more easily. Tumescent fluid will be reabsorbed and excreted by the kidneys in about a day or two after liposuction.

What’s an Average Tumescent Liposuction Recovery Time?

So, what is the expected recovery time for tumescent liposuction? You will have to rest for about one week. Exercise is off-limits, but you should go on relaxing walks – this will improve your overall health. Take it easy – make sure you get enough rest, eat well, and hydrate. Avoid smoking and drinking alcohol until you recover. 

When Can You Begin With Exercises? 

Although it will take you a few months to be fully recovered after lipo (it takes four to six months for the swelling to go down entirely), you can return to physical activity before this period is up. You can go back to physical activities such as exercises about four to six weeks after surgery.

Talk to Your Surgeon About the Recovery Process Before the Operation 

Before you decide to undergo a liposuction procedure, it’s essential to talk to an experienced surgeon who will explain the benefits, risks, and details of the recovery process. Our doctors at Moon Plastic Surgery center can help you out – contact us to book your consultation. You can reach us by calling our office or filling out an inquiry form on our website. 

FAQ

When Do You See Results From Tumescent Lipo?

Although most of the swelling after tumescent lipo will go down in a few days to a week, it will take a bit longer to see actual results. In most cases, it takes three to four months to see the full results of your liposuction procedure – sometimes, it can be up to six months. 

Does Fat Come Back After Tumescent Liposuction?

Once you have liposuction, the fat cells that were removed can’t grow back. However, if you gain weight later on, it tends to distribute evenly throughout the body – which means that it can annul the effects of your tumescent liposuction. 

How Can I Speed Up Lipo Recovery?

Be sure to follow your doctor’s instructions to the letter, and take care of your incisions. It’s important to rest and avoid strenuous physical activity – but make relaxing walks a part of your recovery process. Eating healthy food, hydrating, and sleeping well are all crucial as well. Lastly, stay away from smoking until you fully recover. 

Why Is My Stomach Still Big After Liposuction?

After your lipo procedure, you won’t see results immediately – this is due to swelling and fluid retention. It will look like you’re bloated. Once the swelling goes down, the results of the lipo will be obvious.

Dr. John E. Nees, MD

Dr. John E. Nees, MD

Medically reviewed by
Dr. John E. Nees, MD specializes in aesthetic plastic surgery in Miami, FL

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