Liposuction Recovery

Consultations offered at our three convenient locations in La Jolla, CA, Apple Valley, CA and Newport Beach, CA

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes unwanted fat from specific areas of the body. But, while the results can be transformative, patients must also be prepared for a recovery period after surgery. Liposuction recovery can vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the individual patient’s healing process, but it is essential no matter what that you follow post-procedural advice carefully.

At Tehrani Plastic Surgery in La Jolla and Apple Valley, we take great care to ensure our patients are well-informed and supported throughout their recovery. And there are many ways you can make a difference at this time, including making accommodations for yourself at home, bathing in a way that will not impede your results, and undergoing additional treatments to facilitate a healthy recovery. In fact, research has shown that lymphatic massage, a specialized massage technique that targets the lymphatic system, can aid in reducing swelling and promoting healing after liposuction. 

If you are considering liposuction, Dr. Tehrani and his team are here to support you every step of the way. Call us at (949) 706-7776 or complete an inquiry form to schedule a consultation.

Before and After Photos

Getting Liposuction

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that has been popular for decades. It is designed to remove unwanted fat from specific areas of the body to improve overall body contour and shape. Despite its popularity, it is important to remember that liposuction is not a weight loss solution or an alternative to exercise and a healthy diet. Rather, it is a targeted approach to eliminating stubborn fat that has been resistant to traditional methods.

The ideal liposuction candidate: (1)

  • Is within 30% of their normal body mass index
  • Have been at a stable for 6 months or more
  • Has minimal skin sagging (laxity)
  • Is willing to follow their post-procedure instructions carefully

Benefits of Lipo

  • Improved body contours: Liposuction can remove stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise, giving you a more toned and contoured appearance.
  • Increased confidence: By achieving the body you have always wanted, liposuction can help you feel more confident and comfortable in your own skin.
  • Reduced health risks: Excess fat can contribute to an increased risk of certain health conditions such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Liposuction can help reduce these risks by removing excess fat.
  • Faster results: Unlike traditional weight loss methods, which can take months or even years to show results, liposuction can give you noticeable results in just a few weeks.
  • Minimal downtime: Recovery time for liposuction is typically shorter than other surgical procedures, and most patients can return to their normal activities within a week.
  • Personalized approach: Dr. Tehrani will work with you to develop a customized treatment plan that is tailored to your unique needs and goals, ensuring that you achieve the best possible results.

Find out more about Slimlipo, VASER Hi-Def liposuction, and SAFELipo BBL on our website.

Liposuction Recovery: The Basics

While the liposuction procedure itself may only take a few hours, the recovery period is essential for achieving optimal results. Proper care during recovery can help reduce swelling, bruising, and discomfort, while also promoting faster healing.

Swelling and Bruising

Swelling and bruising are common side effects of liposuction and can last for several weeks after the procedure. To minimize swelling, patients should keep the affected area elevated as much as possible and avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods. Drinking plenty of fluids and eating a healthy diet can also help speed up the healing process.

Follow-Up Appointments

During follow-up appointments, Dr. Tehrani will monitor your progress and ensure that you’re healing correctly. It’s important to keep all scheduled appointments to ensure the best possible results. After a few weeks of recovery, you’ll begin to see the results of your liposuction procedure. Excess fat will have been removed, leaving you with a slimmer, more contoured appearance.

When can I get back to my regular activities?

Dr. Tehrani recommends a gradual return to normal activities, beginning with light walking and increasing activity levels gradually over several weeks. Patients should also maintain a healthy diet and stay hydrated to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications.

How Long Does Liposuction Recovery Take?

The length of recovery time after a liposuction procedure can vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the individual’s health. Generally, patients can expect to take anywhere from a few days to several weeks off work to allow their body to heal properly. During this time, it’s important to avoid any strenuous activities or heavy lifting, as these can slow down the recovery process and increase the risk of complications.

Lymphatic Massage

Lymphatic massage is a gentle form of massage that specifically targets the lymphatic system, which is responsible for removing toxins and waste from the body. This technique helps to promote healthy lymphatic flow throughout the body, which can aid in reducing swelling and inflammation. 

How Does Lymphatic Massage Work?

Lymphatic massage involves gentle pressure applied to specific points on the body, helping to stimulate lymphatic drainage and improve overall circulation. This can be particularly helpful after liposuction, as it can help to reduce fluid buildup in the treated area. (2) 

When Should I Start Lymphatic Massage?

We recommend that patients begin lymphatic massage sessions within the first week following their liposuction procedure. Sessions typically last 30-60 minutes, depending on the extent of the treatment and the patient’s individual needs. Regular massage sessions can help to reduce swelling and bruising, while also improving overall comfort and mobility.

What Else Can I Do To Aid My Recovery?

In addition to lymphatic massage, there are other important steps patients can take to promote a healthy and successful recovery from liposuction. These include wearing compression garments as directed, staying hydrated, eating a healthy diet, avoiding strenuous activity for several weeks, and following all post-operative instructions provided by our experienced plastic surgeon, Dr. Tehrani.

If you’re considering liposuction and want to learn more about the recovery process, please contact our office today. Our team is dedicated to helping you achieve your desired results safely and comfortably.

Personal Consultation

At Tehrani Plastic Surgery, we understand that the decision to undergo liposuction can be a big one. That’s why we offer personalized consultations with Dr. Tehrani to help you determine if the procedure is right for you and what kind of results you can expect. During your consultation, he will assess your medical history and examine the areas you want to be treated with liposuction to determine if you are a good candidate for the procedure. He will also give you detailed information about the necessary steps you must take after your surgery to achieve the most effective results.

Cost of Liposuction in Apple Valley

The cost of your liposuction will vary depending on the extent of the surgery and the level of care needed during the recovery period. Our experienced team will provide you with a personalized treatment plan and accurate price estimate during your consultation. Our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care throughout the entire process, from the initial consultation to the final follow-up appointment. 

At Tehrani Plastic Surgery, we are committed to helping you achieve your desired results while ensuring your safety and comfort. To schedule your liposuction consultation with Dr. Tehrani, please call (949) 706-7776 or fill out our online contact form

Find out more about liposuction and other procedures performed by Dr. Tehrani by reading his blog.

FAQ

What should I expect after liposuction?

During the first few days following liposuction, you may experience some discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treatment area. It’s normal to feel soreness and tenderness in the treated areas, but your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable. You will also need to wear compression garments to reduce swelling and help your skin conform to your new body shape.

Is there any scarring after liposuction?

Liposuction incisions are typically small and well-hidden in natural skin creases or under clothing. Over time, they will fade and become less noticeable. To minimize scarring, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, including keeping the incision sites clean and dry.

How long do the results of liposuction last?

Liposuction permanently removes fat cells from the treated area, so the results are long-lasting. However, it’s important to maintain a healthy lifestyle after the procedure to prevent the remaining fat cells from enlarging. Patients who gain weight after liposuction may see changes in their body shape that affect their results.

Can liposuction be combined with other procedures?

Yes, liposuction can be combined with other procedures such as tummy tuck, breast augmentation, or facelift surgery to achieve comprehensive body contouring results. Your surgeon will perform a thorough evaluation and discuss your individual goals to determine if combining procedures is right for you.

References

  1. Bartow MJ, Raggio BS. Liposuction. PubMed. Published 2022. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK563135/ 
  2. Masson IFB, de Oliveira BDA, Machado AFP, Farcic TS, Júnior IE, Baldan CS. Manual lymphatic drainage and therapeutic ultrasound in liposuction and lipoabdominoplasty post-operative period. Indian Journal of Plastic Surgery. 2014;47(01):70-76. doi:https://doi.org/10.4103/0970-0358.129627