A recent report listing the most popular cosmetic surgeries around the world in 2022, placed liposuction as the second most prevalent. The procedure racks up an incredible global search volume of around 157,000 per month. It is also the third most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in Spain, with an average of 9,900 searches online per month.
If you are one of the thousands of people who are considering undergoing liposuction, it is important to know what to expect after undergoing a liposuction procedure. Dr. Pietro di Mauro, one of the best plastic surgeons in Marbella, explains the recovery process after the operation.
What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure which can be carried out both under local or general anaesthetic and on average the procedure takes around two hours. It is a relatively quick and safe method of removing stubborn pockets of fat by inserting a cannula into the problem area to suck out the fat.
It is important to note, that this type of procedure should only be carried out by a certified and experienced cosmetic surgeon. Dr. di Mauro, is an expert in this area and offers his patients access to the most up to date techniques, such as Vaser Liposuction, which aren’t readily available at other clinics on the Costa del Sol.
Pre-Surgery Consultation
Before any decisions are made, it is necessary to attend a consultation so that your surgeon can assess your situation and apprise you of the expected results and the recovery process. It will be explained to you that each body is different, therefore results will vary and so will the recovery time. Everyone’s body heals at different rates.
Post-operative process
As mentioned briefly, liposuction surgery usually takes around two hours, therefore the procedure will be done as an outpatient, meaning you can return home the same day. However, in some cases it is advisable to remain in the hospital or clinic overnight, depending on the amount of fat removed.
Arrange transport home
When you leave, you will not be able to drive yourself and therefore must arrange transport, be it a family member, friend or taxi. This is because you will still feel the after affects of the anaesthetic and the pain medication, plus you will be experiencing pain, bruising and discomfort as a result of the surgery.
Immediately after surgery
Immediately after your liposuction surgery you will need to wear compression bandages to help the healing process. These must be worn diligently in order to help reduce the bruising and swelling around the treated area.
During these first few days you will also have surgical drains to prevent fluids building up. There will also be a modicum of pain during this period. However, your surgeon will help you navigate through this by providing pain killers and attending to the drains.
Activity should be extremely light. You may not be able to do much as you will be swollen and sore, plus the compression garments may be hampering your movement somewhat. It is a good idea to arrange help around the house and child care during these early days after surgery. After a few days you should start feeling better and the pain will subside.
SECOND WEEK
After two weeks you will most likely be ready to return to work. If you have a physically demanding job, then you may need to wait another week or two and to continue recovering at home.
ONE MONTH LATER
After around one month to six weeks, you will notice that the swelling will have significantly reduced and the compression garments can be discarded. It is now that you will start to see the end results of the liposuction procedure.
Look after yourself
Needless to say, one of the best ways to aid a fast recovery is to make sure you follow your doctor’s post-surgery recovery plan but also to look after your general health. This means resting, eating a balanced healthy diet, staying hydrated and when possible, taking light exercise such as walking.
Follow up appointment
Finally, you should always attend a follow up appointment to ensure that you have made a full recovery.
If you would like to know more about Dr di Mauro’s liposuction procedures and techniques, call 648 43 45 93 for a confidential no-obligation consultation
