Liposuction FAQs – Questions and Answers about Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes stubborn fat from specific areas or the entire body. If you’ve reached your goal weight, or you are approximately 5 kgs above it, the common procedure of Liposuction is the right procedure for you. Because Liposuction is such a common procedure we have answered FAQs about it to give you the information you need to make an informed choice.

At CocoRuby Plastic Surgery, surgeons with decades of experience will help you get rid of those last few pockets of stubborn fat and leave you with a rejuvenated, nicely contoured figure.

Liposuction Guide

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What Is Liposuction FAQs

What is liposuction or liposculpting?

Liposuction and liposculpting are surgical procedure that removes fat from your body by a cannula.
The cannula sucks out the stubborn fat.
Liposuction is used for larger areas and when the surgeon wants to remove a larger amount of fat.
Liposculpture or liposculpting on the other hand, is the chosen method for a more specific area that needs to be taken care of.
They are both proven surgical procedures which yield satisfying results.

What is the difference between liposuction and liposculpting?

Liposuction and liposculpting are very similar surgical procedures. They both remove the fat by using a cannula, a thin hollow tube that sucks out the fat.
The difference between liposuction and liposculpting is in the size of the area undergoing treatment:
- Liposuction removes fat from larger areas of the body (sometimes even the entire body)
- Liposculpture removes fat from more targeted areas, to enhance your body or help you get rid of problematic areas.

What are the different types of Liposuction?

Currently, there are four types of liposuction:
- Tumescent Liposuction – uses liquid to liquify the fat and suck it out,
- Super-Wet Liposuction – uses less liquid than tumescent Lipo and is a faster method,
- Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction – uses ultrasonic waves to break down and liquify the fat,
- Laser-Assisted Liposuction – breaks down the fat the same way as ultrasonic Lipo but uses a laser at the end of the cannula to do so.

What is Tumescent Liposuction?

Tumescent Liposuction is a surgical procedure in which a special type of liquid (Tumescent liquid), is injected into the area that your surgeon will do Lipo on.
The liquid contains numbing agents and vasoconstrictors – blood vessel shrinking agents. These two chemicals increase your comfort and reduce the swelling both before and after your liposuction and liposculpting. The chemicals help decrease the risk of excess bleeding.
Tumescent Lipo is a 21st century standard in plastic surgery that improves liposuction results and shortens the recovery time.

What is Super-Wet Liposuction?

Super-Wet Liposuction injects liquid into the area that your surgeon will do liposuction on.
The liquid contains a numbing agent, a blood vessel contractor, and a small percentage of salt.
It is very similar to Tumescent Liposuction but uses less liquid and is a faster method to remove your unwanted fat.

What is Laser-assisted Liposuction?

Laser-assisted liposuction uses a cannula that has a laser beam at its end.
The laser helps break down and liquify the fat tissue that your surgeon removes.
This technique speeds up the Lipo and makes it a safer procedure.

What is Vaser liposuction?

Vaser Liposuction is a liposuction method that uses ultrasound waves to break down fat and liquify it, making it easier to extract it.
Some patients say that recovery after a Vaser Lipo is faster than with traditional, tumescent Lipo because the ultrasound waves break down the fat, so the surgeon does not have to use as many back and forth motions.
Both methods give good results, and permanently remove the fat.

What type of fat is removed during liposuction?

Liposuction removes the subcutaneous fat. This type of fat is found right underneath the skin.
When you start gaining weight, this is the first layer of fat that gets enlarged, and when you start losing weight, this is the first layer of fat that gets melted away.
Liposuction can remove this layer of fat tissue all over the body.

Can liposuction change body shape?

Yes, liposuction can change your body shape.
Liposuction is a procedure used for contouring the body once you’ve dropped the majority of the weight.
With Lipo, you can target specific areas of your body that you would like to remove stubborn fat from, such as:

Some surgeons may also do micro liposuction in the face, using very thin cannulas (thinner than 3mm).

Will Lipo make me skinny?

Liposuction can remove up to 5 litres of fat at a time, but liposuction is NOT a weight-loss procedure.
If you are overweight, you should lose most of your weight before undergoing liposuction since 5 litres of fat on a bigger body may not make a big difference. However, if you’ve lost a lot of weight and have toned up in the gym, you may see a big difference after your liposuction.
Liposuction is great to target stubborn fat that doesn’t seem to move even post weight – loss.

Can you get liposuction twice?

Yes, you can get liposuction twice.
The surgeon removes the fat for good, although you may need another lipo after a significant weight gain and loss.
Furthermore, new research shows that the body may create new fat cells, although this may take around a decade to happen, and the new fat cells are not as numerous as those that the surgeon has removed.
In rare cases, if an inexperienced surgeon did your first Lipo, you may need a revision lipo or correction liposuction.

What happens to loose skin after liposuction?

Your specialised plastic surgeon may surgically remove loose skin after Lipo.
You should note that lipo, especially ultra-sound assisted liposuction and laser-assisted liposuction, has some skin-tightening effects.
Depending on your initial state and how much fat is removed, you may not have any loose skin.
However, if you have undergone massive weight loss, you may end up with loose skin folds that you need to have surgically removed. This can be done by either a tummy tuck or by a lipectomy, (these are surgical procedures that remove loose skin from the abdomen and back).

Can liposuction get rid of belly fat?

Yes, liposuction can get rid of belly fat.
Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure, but if you have issues with the last few kilos of stubborn fat or fat that you cannot drop in the gym, liposuction is the answer for you.

How much fat can liposuction remove?

Liposuction can remove up to 5 litres of fat. If necessary, your surgeon can remove smaller amounts.
If you are a slim patient, 5 litres may be too much, as there may not be that much fat in your body.
You should be aware of surgeons who say that they can remove more than this in one go.
Removing more fat requires doing liposuction in a hospital setting, and you would have to stay overnight. This way, your surgeon can monitor your vitals and make sure that your recovery is successful.
Beware of any surgeon who says that they can remove huge amounts of fat. Doing this carries many risks and is unsafe for you.

Does Liposuction get rid of stretch marks?

No, liposuction does not get rid of stretch marks.
Stretch marks appear on the skin that is stretched beyond its limits during a weight gain, pregnancy or growth spurt (puberty).
Removing the underlying fat removes the cause of the stretch marks, but it will not remove the stretch marks themselves.
Your stretch marks may appear somewhat slimmer after a lipo, but they may also have more pronounced pigmentation.

Does Liposuction lift your pubic area?

Liposuction does not lift the pubic area.
If you are concerned about fat deposits in the pubic area itself, you can ask your specialised plastic surgeon about Mons Pubis Liposuction or liposuction of the pubic area.
In some cases, lipo suction can make the area worse by giving loose skin after removing excess fat.

Can Liposuction affect pregnancy?

Liposuction should not affect pregnancy, however you need to wait after the pregnancy to get your liposuction.
Liposuction is a surgical procedure, and your body takes a lot of time and energy to recover from it.
Being pregnant during Lipo is any procedure is not safe for mum or baby.
Please always follow your surgeon’s advice and common sense.

Can Liposuction reverse diabetes?

No, liposuction cannot reverse diabetes.
If you are worried about diabetes, you should know that research on BMI and the Risk of Developing Diabetes shows that for every 1 kg of fat a patient loses, the chances for developing diabetes reduces by 16%.
So, Lipo as a means of dropping the final few kilos of stubborn fat can make you healthier and may slightly reduce the chance of developing diabetes.
Beware that Lipo is not a substitute for proper nutrition and physical activity.

Is it hard to get abs after Lipo?

It will be easier getting abs after Lipo.
Lipo removes some of the fat tissue that may be hiding your abs, thus making it easier to expose them with regular exercise and a healthy diet.
However, liposuction does not remove all the fat deposits, you will still need to eat healthy and excercise to tone your abdomen.

Does stomach liposuction work?

Yes, stomach liposuction works, and it gives satisfying results.
Most patients who receive liposuction say that they are beyond happy with the results and that their post-lipo belly is noticeably smaller.
Liposuction Before and After Pictures show what you can expect after your liposuction.

Will I need Liposuction after weight loss?

You may need liposuction after weight loss.
If you’ve lost a significant amount of weight, you may notice that loosing those final few kilos of stubborn fat can be difficult.
This is where liposuction comes in, the focus of this surgical procedure is to remove specific pockets of fat tissue.

Am I The Right Candidate / Liposuction Prerequisites FAQs

Who is the ideal candidate for liposuction?

You may be an ideal candidate for liposuction if you:
- Have lost weight and are about 5-10 kilos above your desired weight,
- Have had a stable weight for several months and do not plan on gaining weight,
- Are not a smoker, or are willing to quit at least six weeks before your liposuction,
- Have realistic expectations of what your specialised plastic surgeon can achieve using liposuction,
- Have an understanding of what the risks and complications of this surgical procedure are.

What age is best for liposuction?

You should be at least 18 years of age for liposuction.
This way, you understand the risks and complications of liposuction surgical procedures.
There is no upper age limit for getting liposuction, although if you are a little older, you may take a longer time to recover after a lipo.
Always consult your specialised plastic surgeon with any concerns you may have and let them know if you have any chronic conditions, such as heart and lung disease, high blood pressure or diabetes.

What kind of Liposuction do I need?

Your specialised plastic surgeon will be able to estimate what kind of liposuction would be the best for you.
If you want to remove very thin fat deposits, the tumescent or super-wet technique may be the best.
In cases with thicker fat buildup, you may want to have ultrasound-assisted or laser-assisted liposuction since they can speed up fat breakdown and shorten the operating time.
Your experienced plastic surgeon will know exactly what type of Lipo would be the best for you, based on years of experience and expertise.

What is the minimum weight for liposuction?

There is no minimum weight for liposuction since different heights, body fat percentage and BMI need to be taken into consideration.
If you want to lose more than 10-15 kilos, you may want to consider natural weight loss and bariatric surgery.

What is the best BMI for liposuction?

Your BMI should ideally be no more than 28-33 for liposuction surgery.
However, BMI is not the only thing taken into account in deciding if you are the right candidate for a liposuction procedure.
Your surgeon will need details about your body fat content, visceral fats, and many others to properly assess your situation and say if you are the right candidate or not.

Can I have Liposuction after C-section?

Yes, you can have liposuction after a C-section.
Surgeons recommend that you wait at least six months after you’ve had your C-section before having liposuction.
This wait time is due to the fact that your body needs time to heal from one procedure before you undergo another.

Liposuction Preparation FAQs

Is it better to lose weight before or after liposuction?

It is best to lose weight before liposuction.
This way, your experienced plastic surgeon will be able to see exactly where to remove fatty tissues from during your Lipo.
Losing weight after Lipo may compromise the results, and you may even need revision liposuction to correct any misshapen features.
Furthermore, it is best to lose weight before liposuction because then your surgeon will be able to tell whether another procedure, such as a tummy tuck or a lipectomy, may be a better option for you.

How do you prepare for Liposuction surgery?

To prepare for liposuction surgery, you should:
- Lose weight and be 5-10kilos from your goal weight,
- Practice regular physical activity,
- Have a healthy diet for at least several weeks before your liposuction,
- Quit smoking at least six weeks before your Lipo, and not smoke for at least six weeks after your Lipo,
- Be ready to stay at home for a while after your liposuction procedure.

How do I prepare my body for liposuction?

To prepare your body for a lipo, you should:
- Have a healthy diet, exercise regularly, avoid smoking and drinking excessive amounts of alcohol,
- Avoid rigorous diets and maintain your weight for several months at least,
- Stay away from direct sunlight, avoid sunburns, apply SPF whenever heading out,
- Have a lymphatic massage before surgery since there are indicators it may help with post lipo swelling and shorten the recovery period.

Do I need to lose weight for Lipo?

Yes, you should lose as much weight for Lipo as you can.
Be careful that the weight loss is gradual since dropping weight too quickly can compromise your health and increase the chances for post-liposuction complications.
For a successful weight loss before Lipo, you need a mild caloric deficit and regular physical activity.

What is the maximum weight for Liposuction?

Your specialised plastic surgeon can safely remove up to 5 litres (5 kilos) of fat in a single liposuction procedure.
Any amount of fat above this threshold increases the chances for liposuction complications and may put you in danger.
To remove larger amounts of fat, your surgeon will need to operate in a surgical theatre.

What to pack for Liposuction surgery?

You should pack all the paperwork and blood work for your liposuction surgery.
Additionally, you may need to pack a compression garment if your surgeon does not supply you with one.
You will also need to wear loose and comfortable clothes.
We suggest that you bring something with you to pass-time whilst you recover.

Liposuction Procedure FAQs

Is Liposuction major surgery?

Yes, liposuction is major surgery since it penetrates below the skin and removes some of your tissues.
Lipo is a very common surgery, but it still has its risks and complications.
Ensure that you understand the risks and complications of your liposuction, as the procedure is irreversible.

How long is Liposuction surgery?

Your liposuction surgery will take between 1 and 3 hours.
In some cases, it may take a little longer, depending on your case and the area/s that you are undergoing fat removal from.
In most cases you will be able to go home on the same day.
However, hospital lipo for large fat removal may take longer, and you may have to stay in the hospital for a day or two.

How many hours does Liposuction take?

Liposuction can take anywhere between 1 and 3 hours, depending on your body state and the desired results.
In general, your surgeon will do their best to keep you under anaesthesia for the shortest possible period.

How many sizes can you lose with Liposuction?

You can lose between 1-2 sizes with liposuction.
Liposuction is the best procedure if you want to lose targeted fat deposits, such as the fat from your tummy or the flanks. Your surgeon may also remove fat deposits from your thighs, back and buttocks.

How much weight do you lose with Liposuction?

Liposuction can remove 1- 4 kilos in total.
Liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss.
If you struggle with excessive weight, you may consider natural weight loss or bariatric surgery.

How long after Lipo can I see results?

You will be able to see a change in your figure immediately after liposuction.
However, it will take 10-14 days for the swelling to go away.
You can see near-complete results some 4-6 weeks after the procedure. During this time, you should wear your compression garment 24/7 to make the results better and longer-lasting.

How long will I leak after liposuction?

It is normal to have some discharge after liposuction.
You will leak for approximately 48 hours after your Lipo. The discharge is simply water accumulation leaving the body and should not concern you too much.
If leaking is significantly longer than 48 hours, you may contact your specialised plastic surgeon for a closer follow-up examination.

Is it easier to lose weight after liposuction?

Liposuction removes fatty tissue, but it does not address your ability to burn calories. It will be more difficult to put weight on, but it is still possible to gain weight.
It is best to lose weight as a combination of a healthy diet and regular physical activity.

What’s better, tummy tuck or Lipo?

A tummy tuck and a lipo are two different surgical procedures.
The tummy tuck procedure addresses some fat tissues generally found on the abdomen and loose, droopy skin that can be found after a pregnancy or a massive weight loss.
Liposuction removes stubborn fat pockets and may not be the best solution for dealing with large amounts of loose, saggy skin.
If you dont know which surgical procedure is better for you, you can schedule an appointment with your specialised plastic surgeon, who will assess your situation and recommend the best procedure for you.

What will I look like after liposuction?

You will look slimmer and contoured after liposuction.
Immediately following the procedure you will have some swelling but liposuction swelling is a normal part of lipo recovery.
Once the swelling has subsided, you will be able to see your true, contoured shape.

What are the side effects of liposuction?

Like any other surgical procedure, Liposuction has some side effects you may need to endure for a short time after the procedure. The side effects include:
- Pain
- Discomfort,
- Swelling,
- Infection,
- Bleeding, etc.

Discuss any concerns you may have with your specialised plastic surgeon. Choose only the best plastic surgeon in Melbourne to operate on you. Read about the Secrets of a Great Liposuction Surgeon.

Liposuction Recovery FAQs

Does Lipo leave scars?

Liposuction leaves small, barely visible scars that an experienced plastic surgeon will be able to hide in the natural contours and groves of the body.
Your specialised plastic surgeon will make a few micro incisions on your body to be able to access the area from which they want to remove the fat.
The incisions are generally very short, around 1 cm or 1/5th of an inch.
The incisions will heal in a short time and will leave barely noticeable scars.
If you are concerned about liposuction scars, scar management treatments can help fade the scars.

How painful is Liposuction recovery?

You will feel minimal pain but you will be sore after liposuction.
Your specialised plastic surgeon will prescribe some pain medication and other medicine to help control any discomfort you experience immediately after the procedure.
The discomfort usually starts on day one, as the numbing agent wears off and is strongest on the second day.
As time passes you will experience less and less discomfort.

How bad does liposuction hurt?

Liposuction is reported as uncomfortable rather than painful.
During the procedure, you will be given an anaesthetic to numb the pain.
Post-op, you will be taking pain relievers to keep you in a comfortable condition.
You should always follow your surgeon’s advice for a fast recovery and quickly get off the pain meds.

How long for the Liposuction incision to heal?

Liposuction incisions heal very quickly.
Liposuction incisions are small cuts in your skin. They are so small you may not even need sutures, the incision is only around 1cm long.
However, for the complete healing to occur and for the scar to fully mature, it may take up to a year.

How long does Liposuction take to heal?

Liposuction heals very fast.
You will be up and about in just a few days after a small-scale lipo.
You may need a week or two off work for full-body liposuction.
It will take about two weeks for the swelling to go away.
Furthermore, you will have to wait approximately 4-6 weeks before resuming more strenuous activities, such as swimming and heavy lifting.

How long to recover from mini Liposuction?

Liposuction recovery is short, and you may be back to work just three to ten days after your lipo procedure. (depending on what you do for work)
It is important to take all the steps to ensure there are no complications since they may prolong your recovery period.

Why is my stomach still big after liposuction?

After liposuction, it is normal to experience some swelling.
The majority of swelling dissipate after approximately two weeks, and you will be able to see your new figure.
Your surgeon will instruct you to wear a compression garment to reduce swelling and speed up the recovery process.
This special garment allows the body to reabsorb the accumulated liquid and keeps the swelling at bay.

How long will my stomach be swollen after liposuction?

You will experience stomach swelling for approximately two weeks after liposuction.
The swelling starts to appear on day one after a lipo, and it gradually increases until day three or four.
By the end of the first week, some of the swelling will be gone, and it will continue to subside over the next few days.
The majority of swelling is gone by the end of week two. However, you will still need to wear your compression garment to keep the remaining swelling at bay.

How to reduce swelling after Liposuction?

You can reduce swelling after liposuction by listening to your surgeon’s advice:
- Have plenty of rest, especially in the first several days after Lipo,
- Move around or have a short walk around your house or your backyard to promote blood flow and speed up the recovery process,
- Eat a healthy diet – a healthy body heals faster,
- Wear your compression garment – a compression garment keeps swelling at bay by limiting how much swelling can occur and helping the body reabsorb the extra liquid.
- Take all the prescribed medication and be disciplined about the timing.
Ensure that you fully understand that most recovery is on you.
Past the surgery, there is little that a surgeon can do besides giving you proper medication and advice.
Following liposuction surgeon’s advice is a sure way to reduce liposuction swelling.

Is it normal to leak after liposuction?

Yes, leaking for up to 48 hours after liposuction is normal since your body is trying to expel liquid buildup.
The liposuction discharge may be almost completely clear, or it may be pinkish or reddish. This should not concern you, as the discharge is normal at this stage of recovery.
You should drink plenty of liquids to avoid dehydration.

How do you get rid of fluid after liposuction?

Your specialised plastic surgeon may place drains to help with fluid buildup after your liposuction.
The fluid will be draining for around 48 hours after your Lipo.
To ensure that no excessive swelling appears at the site, your surgeon will give you a compression garment that you should wear for at least 4-6 weeks after your lipo procedure.

How long is your stomach numb after Lipo?

Your stomach will be numb, and you may feel some slight tingling in your stomach for a few days to a few months after a liposuction procedure.
To ensure that your recovery is super-fast, you should take all precautions to ensure a quick recovery, wear a compression garment and have a healthy diet. This will speed up the recovery, and the numbness will go away quicker.

How long to wear bandages after Liposuction?

Your surgeon may apply some bandages over your incisions if they are not closed or sutured.
You should wear the bandages for as long as there is some discharge from the incisions.
Ensure to apply new, dry bandages regularly or as instructed by your surgeon.

How long do you wear compression garments after liposuction?

You should wear your compression garment 24/7 for the first six weeks after your liposuction.
The compression garment reduces swelling, shortens the recovery period and ensures that you get optimal results.
Your surgeon may suggest wearing your compression garment even longer after your Lipo, depending on your case.

Can I wear a waist trainer after Lipo?

Yes, you can wear a waist trainer after Lipo.
You should first let the Lipo fully heal before wearing a waist trainer. During this period, you should wear a compression garment, which will gently press on the area that Lipo was done on and reduce any swelling you may be experiencing.

Why does my skin feel so tight after Lipo?

Skin tightness is a normal occurrence after Lipo.
Liposuction can tighten your skin to an extent, especially if the liposuction was ultrasound or laser-assisted liposuction.
Furthermore, you may experience some swelling after your Lipo, and this swelling may persist for some 10-14 days after the procedure.
Ensure that your skin is moisturised, drink plenty of fluids and wear your compression garment at all times.

Does skin tighten after liposuction?

Your skin may tighten to an extent, although it may not completely go back to what it was like before your weight gain.
The skin tightening will be most pronounced where the skin is thin, such as the chin and the neck.
In areas where the skin is thicker, the tightening may be less pronounced.
Liposuction skin tightening will not tighten sagging skin resulting from aging or a massive weight loss.

How do you tighten skin after liposuction?

Liposuction will tighten your skin to an extent. However, if you are left with a lot of loose, saggy skin, you may want to consider surgical procedures, such as a tummy tuck or a belt lipectomy.
Both procedures remove excess, saggy, aging skin and leave your torso looking younger, smaller and healthier.

How important is massage after liposuction?

Manual Lymphatic Drainage (MLD) massage is a procedure by which you may drain some excess fluid from the area where you had liposuction.
The massage both speeds up the recovery process and shortens it.
Your specialised plastic surgeon may suggest getting an MLD message both before and after liposuction for best results.

When should I start massaging after Lipo?

You should start massaging some two weeks after Lipo.
The MLD or Manual Lymphatic Drainage is believed to speed up the recovery process and prevent scar tissue formation.
You will need some three to five massage sessions after your Lipo.
Some surgeons may also suggest getting an MLD before the Lipo, promoting local metabolism and making the skin more flexible before the procedure.

Can I do my lymphatic massage after Lipo?

Yes, you can do your lymphatic massage after Lipo.
Make sure to know what you are doing and when to start massaging.
In general, surgeons suggest starting with MLD or Manual Lymphatic Drainage two weeks after the surgery is complete or when most swelling and bruising has dissipated.

What can you not do after liposuction?

There are several things you should not do after your liposuction, DO NOT:
- Stay stationary, as this demotes blood flow and may even increase chances of blood clot formation,
- Take blood thinners, as they may promote bleeding and slow down wound healing,
- Spend a long time in the water, such as when having a bath, visiting hot tubs, or swimming – water may cause infection, and warm water may even slow down wound healing,
- Undertake strenuous exercise, as it may put extra pressure on the tissues, promote bleeding and skin separation from the abdominal wall.

What can you do immediately after liposuction?

There are things you can and should do after liposuction:

Get up and move around -at least going to the restroom on the day of the surgery is a big success as it promotes blood flow and speeds up the recovery process,
Get plenty of rest – it promotes healing as your body can divert all energy to the lipo area,
Have a healthy diet – healthy diet results in a healthy body, and a healthy body heals fast and experiences fewer complications,
Exercise regularly – in the first few weeks post-liposuction, you should only walk and do very mild exercises.

How to sleep after Liposuction?

You should sleep on your back for at least three weeks following your liposuction. This promotes fluid drainage, reduces excessive swelling and applies no pressure on the incisions, which can heal faster and safer.
Sleeping on your side or your stomach can cause discomfort and compromise the results.
Always wear your compression garment, even at night.

Can you lay on your stomach after Lipo?

No, you should not lay on your stomach after liposuction.
Laying on your stomach can compromise the results, cause discomfort and cause complications after your liposuction. Always follow your surgeon’s advice on how to act after a lipo.

Can you sleep on your side after Liposuction?

No, you should not sleep on your side after liposuction. Sleeping on your side after liposuction puts extra pressure on the incision points and may cause complications, such as infection.
Furthermore, because your body is tilted while sleeping on the side, your swelling may ‘drop’ to the side you sleep on and cause discomfort.

How long after Liposuction can you stand up straight?

Liposuction has a very easy recovery, and you should be able to stand up straight immediately.
If your abdomen feels sore when standing up straight, do not force yourself, but give yourself a day or two.
It is important to move around in the initial days after liposuction, so make sure to walk around the house and take plenty of rest while lying on your back in a reclined position.

How long off work for Liposuction?

You may go back to work five to ten days after your liposuction.
If you had a large scale lipo or have excessive swelling, it may take a little longer to go back to work.
In general, if you have a desk job, you can go back to work days after surgery.
If your work involves a lot of heavy lifting, you may want to wait for a few weeks.
Your specialised plastic surgeon will be able to tell you approximately when you can go back to work.

How long after Liposuction can I do sit-ups?

You can start mild exercises as soon as three or four weeks after your liposuction.
You can start more strenuous exercise some six weeks after your liposuction.
Allow your body to heal before attempting any particularly strenuous exercises and follow common sense: if there is discomfort, stop the exercise and take a rest.

How many days after Lipo Can I shower?

You can shower 48 hours after liposuction.
This should give enough time for the incisions to close, and you will be able to take short showers with lukewarm water.
Avoid taking baths, hot tubs and swimming for several weeks after your liposuction as they may promote infections and poor wound healing.

When can I stop wearing a compression garment after Liposuction?

You should wear your compression garment after liposuction for at least six weeks.
Depending on the liposuction site and the quality of your skin, your surgeon may suggest wearing a compression garment for even longer.
If there are any complications, they can prolong this period as well.
You should wear your compression garment 24/7, although it is OK to take it off when you shower and wash it.

When do you start driving after Liposuction?

You should not drive immediately after liposuction.
You can start driving once you are off your pain medication and when you have a full range of motion.
Organise to have a friend or a family member bring you back home after liposuction.

How can I flatten my stomach after liposuction?

Your stomach will get flat on its own after liposuction.
The swelling and bloating that you may be experiencing after your Lipo will be dissipate in approximately 10-14 days.
If you have loose, droopy skin on your stomach, a tummy tuck procedure may be a better procedure for you.
- During this procedure, your abs are stitched together for a slimmer waistline, and your excess skin is surgically removed for a truly rejuvenated tummy.

Is getting liposuction worth it?

Yes, liposuction is worth it.
Liposuction is one of the most common plastic surgeries today, and it yields very good results.
Most patients who receive liposuction or a liposculpture say that they are beyond happy with the results.
For best results, always choose a specialised plastic surgeon to do your liposuction.

Liposuction Longer-Term Results FAQs

Will scars after Lipo be visible?

Scars after liposuction will be barely visible.
The incisions your specialised plastic surgeon will make for your liposuction will be around 1 cm long and hidden in the natural contours of your body.
Whenever possible, your surgeon will choose places that are normally hidden by clothes and swimwear.
If you are concerned about your scars, ask your specialised plastic surgeon how to take good care of your wounds and scars after liposuction and what scar management they can suggest.

How long do Liposuction scars take to fade?

It can take up to a year for a scar to fully mature.
During this period, do what you can to speed up the scar healing and prevent it from becoming more prominent.
Some useful scar-fading tips and tricks include:
- Eat a healthy diet and take vitamin supplements,
- Exercise regularly to promote blood flow,
- Keep the scar hydrated.
- Use silicone-based scar-fading creams,
- Apply SPF whenever heading out,
- Avoid stretching the skin where the scar is, at least in the first several weeks post-op.

How to minimise scarring after liposuction?

Minimising scarring after a lipo boils down to having a good diet, exercising regularly and taking good care of the scar.
The liposuction scar care comprises of using a good skin moisturiser, a good silicone-based skin cream and SPF and avoiding exposing the scar to direct sunlight.
You can further fade scars with scar management treatments, such as Healite II, Fraxer Laser or DermaPen.

How to reduce swelling after Liposuction?

You can reduce swelling after liposuction by wearing a compression garment and taking proper care of your body during the recovery period.
You should provide your body with ample rest and mild physical activity to promote good blood flow.
You should also sleep in a reclined position at an angle of 30 degrees to promote liquid dissipation and reabsorption by your body.

How to keep the figure after liposuction?

Keeping your figure after liposuction is the key to enjoying an attractive contour for years to come.
Maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet and exercise regularly to keep your weight stable.
Although it may be slightly more difficult to put weight on after liposuction, weight fluctuations can still compromise your results.

How to keep fat from coming back after Lipo?

A mild caloric deficit and regular physical activity are best to keep fat from coming back after Lipo.
Regular physical activity will ensure your muscles are toned up, and your figure is slim and nicely contoured.

Liposuction Risks And Complications FAQs

Is Liposuction safe?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure, and like any other surgical procedure, it has its risks and complications.
However, you can minimise these risks by choosing the best possible plastic surgeon.
A board-certified plastic surgeon will know how to approach you in a customised way and minimise the possible risks and complications.
Furthermore, years of experience will guarantee that the advice you get is the best possible, up-to-date advice that will enhance your results.

What happens years after liposuction?

Years after liposuction, your body will still have the contour that you had right after the liposuction.
Lipo is a permanent procedure that completely removes the fat cells.
Although some new research shows that the body can form new fat cells, it may take around a decade or so for the new fat cell formation and for as long as you keep your weight as close to the desired weight as you can, you should look rejuvenated and more attractive than before your Lipo.

Can you get pregnant after Liposuction?

Yes, you can get pregnant after liposuction.
Lipo does not impact your ability to get pregnant or to bear a child.
You may want to pay closer attention to your diet during pregnancy: although some weight gain is normal, gaining too much weight can compromise your liposuction results.

Can I have a baby after Liposuction?

Yes, you can have a baby after liposuction.
Liposuction does not interfere with your menstrual cycle or ability to stay pregnant.
It is recommended to take a break between liposuction and pregnancy since your body needs to heal fully for a more comfortable and safer pregnancy.

Can you have Liposuction before getting pregnant?

Yes, you can have liposuction before getting pregnant.
Allow enough time between liposuction and pregnancy so that your body can heal properly.
Some surgeons will suggest that a minimum of some 3-6 months between the two events.

What happens if you gain weight after Liposuction?

If you gain weight after liposuction, the existing tissue will enlarge to accept the caloric surplus, but you will not gain large amounts of fat where your surgeon did the Lipo.
However, you may look less-than-ideal since the fat will not be deposited in its ideal location.

Does Lipo permanently remove fat?

The fat that is removed in liposuction is gone for good.
However, if you are not careful with your diet and physical activity, you can still gain weight after your Lipo.
The fat cells that are removed are removed permanently, although new fat cells can form.

Liposuction Financing FAQs

Is Liposuction covered by Medicare?

No, Medicare does not cover Liposuction.
This is an elective cosmetic surgery and, as such, you must pay for the procedure out of your own pocket.

Can you finance Liposuction?

Yes, you can finance liposuction.
There are surgery financing solutions and low or interest-free credit cards that you can rely on to pay for your surgery.
Furthermore, your bank may also have some loan offers for you, so make sure to contact them and ask about your options.

Is getting Liposuction worth it?

Yes, getting liposuction is worth it.
Many people say that they feel much younger and look better after their liposuction procedure.
You may also feel emotional relief since liposuction targets areas, which may have been giving you trouble for years.
With one of the shortest recovery times in plastic surgery, you may realise that the benefits outweigh the short recovery time.