Expectations after surgery   

Most patients, once correctly informed, are satisfied with the cosmetic result following their surgery. Informed patients understand that there are limitations to what liposuction can accomplish.

If you are having a large amount of fat removed, such as having fat removed from your abdomen, or you are being put to sleep (general anesthesia) for the procedure, you should expect to be admitted to the hospital. If you are having a smaller amount of fat removed, such as from the thighs, and with the area numbed (local anesthesia) for the procedure, you may be able to have it done on an outpatient, same-day basis as long as the office has the proper equipment and oxygen on hand, should it be needed.

Convalescence   

The liposuctioned area may appear larger than before surgery because of swelling. A tight stocking, girdle, or snug elastic dressing must be worn over the treated area to reduce swelling and bleeding, and to help shrink the skin to fit the new contour. This garment should be worn continuously for 2 to 3 weeks.

Patients should expect swelling, bruising, numbness, and pain that can be managed with medications. The stitches will be removed in 5 to 10 days. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection.

Sensations such as numbness or tingling, as well as pain, may be felt for weeks after the surgery. Walking is recommended as soon after surgery as possible to help prevent blood clots from forming in the legs. More strenuous exercise is restricted for about a month after the surgery.

You will start to feel better after about a week or two following liposuction surgery. You may return to work within a few days of the surgery. Bruising and swelling is usually subsides within three weeks; however, several months later you may still have some residual swelling.