Liposuction is a popular surgical procedure for fat removal. However, many people are not aware of the potential side effects that come with it, such as postoperative incisions. Proper care during the liposuction recovery process is essential for optimal healing. In this blog post, we will discuss how to heal your liposuction incisions and what you can do to support the body’s natural healing process. Furthermore, we will also go over some of the best methods for healing after liposuction surgery so that you can get back on track ASAP!
Once the liposuction procedure is complete, you will need to recover so that your body can heal. Lipo incisions removes fat cells from stubborn pockets on the body, but it is still a form of plastic surgery that requires a dedicated recovery process. In some cases, scars may occur at the small incisions sites. For this reason, it’s important for you to pay close attention to the post-operative instructions from your plastic surgeon to make sure that everything heals properly. If not, this could lead to scarring which is not only unsightly, but it can also be painful.
Your doctor should provide you with these instructions directly after surgery, and they will likely include tips such as:
Don’t Pick At the Incision Site to Prevent Infection
One of the worst things that you can do is to pick at your incision site. This will only make it worse and could lead to an infection or scarring, hindering the wound healing process. It’s crucial for you not to apply any makeup, lotions, ointments, or products like hydrogen peroxide directly onto this area unless specifically instructed by your surgeon. Keeping the area clean and dry is key to helping your body recover and to prevent infection.
Avoid Putting Pressure On the Treatment Area
If you’re having difficulty walking, then it may be because of the lipo incisions and not your incision. You should never put pressure on the treatment site as doing so could cause more problems, including scarring or pain in the long run. This is especially true for many patients who may have had a tummy tuck performed at the same time. Supporting the body’s healing is your top priority.
Wear Loose Fitting Clothing & Compression Garments
You will need to wear loose fitting clothing after the surgery. This is because tight clothing can cause friction and make your scars worse. It’s best for you to avoid wearing tight pants or even anything that rubs against the treated areas, like skinny jeans, yoga pants, or tights.
Additionally, your surgeon will likely recommend compression garments. These specialized garments are crucial for managing swelling, reducing fluid retention, and helping your skin conform to its new contours. Wearing them as directed is a vital part of supporting healing.
Take Prescribed Pain Medication & Follow a Balanced Diet
Your doctor may prescribe a pain medication for you to get through the first couple of days. It’s crucial that you take this as it can help with any potential discomfort, swelling, and bruising. In addition to prescription medications, your doctor will likely also recommend some over-the-counter remedies and supplements that aid natural healing processes. Following a balanced diet rich in essential vitamins and nutrients will also fuel your body’s ability to heal.
- Cold Pack: This is perfect for helping to reduce swelling and any pain that may occur.
- Arnica Gel/Tablets: You can also find this in a gel or tablet form which helps with bruising, swelling, and redness.
- Bromelain Tablets: These are great as they work well with swelling and bruising.
- Ibuprofen: You can find this over the counter in pill form which is amazing for reducing pain and inflammation.
You should also avoid taking any blood thinners during your recovery period unless approved by your doctor. This includes aspirin or ibuprofen that you would normally take. Good hydration is also key, so be sure to drink plenty of water to help flush your system and improve blood flow.
It’s also important to know that most patients should not smoke or use straws during the first couple of days after post-operative liposuction surgery, as this can cause bruising and swelling. It’s best to avoid these activities for a few weeks. While you should rest, some light movement or light exercise, like short walks, can help prevent blood clots.
Conclusion: Trusting the Healing Process
You need to follow the doctor’s post operative instructions in order to heal properly from your lipo incisions surgery. If you follow these instructions, your incisions will heal quickly and they shouldn’t cause any problems. Trusting the healing process and giving your body the support it needs is the best way to achieve great results after removing excess fat.
If you need more information, get in touch with Dr. Jim Brantner M.D. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, we provide top-quality plastic surgery services and consultations.