8 Top Tips to Minimize Swelling Following Cankle Liposuction

Swelling is an inevitable result of having cankle liposuction. When you have lipo, your surgeon will use a cannula and suction device to remove the excess fat cells. When the surgeon moves the cannula, it makes tunnels under your skin. Those tunnels, then, fill up with bodily fluids, and this results in swelling post-surgery. Although swelling is normal, it can still be unpleasant. 

Swelling post-lipo also makes it difficult to see the result of your surgery. It can hide the impressive reduction in your cankle size. You may have to wait several weeks or even months to see the full result. Luckily, you can minimize the swelling if you follow these tips.

How Long Does Post-Lipo Swelling Last?

You will almost certainly experience swelling after your liposuction of the cankle area. Most of the swelling following your procedure will disappear after around three to four weeks. However, it could persist for a few months before it subsides completely. Usually, the third day following your procedure will see the worst swelling. After that, you should notice that it begins to subside. If you follow the tips below, the swelling will reduce much more rapidly.

How Can I Treat Post-Lipo Swelling?

The most effective way to treat liposuction swelling is just giving it time. Inflammation is common after most types of surgery. Eventually, it will subside, and the result will become more noticeable. There are, though, a few things you can do to get rid of that swelling to heal more quickly.

1. Wear Your Compression Garment

Your surgeon will prescribe you a compression garment that you should wear after your surgery. You must follow your surgeon’s instructions about this. It will support your ankle and calf area as it heals. It will also suppress the fluid buildup under your skin, which helps the body to absorb it more quickly. It will enable your skin to contract to fit your body’s new contours, too. This will prevent creases and wrinkles following surgery.

2. Use Ice Packs

If you use a cold compress or ice pack, you can effectively reduce swelling. Ice packs work with all types of swelling. Apply for 15 to 20 minutes every hour for the first couple of days to reduce the swelling. Ask your surgeon about how you should apply cold compresses. This will make sure you don’t do any harm.

3. Have Massage Therapies

There is a kind of massage known as MLD (manual lymphatic drainage) that surgeons recommend for recovery from lipo. This gentle form of massage reduces post-liposuction swelling by helping the fluids to drain from under your skin.

4. Reduce Your Salt Consumption

Limit how much salt you consume to reduce swelling more quickly. Sodium causes water retention, and this increases bloating and swelling.

5. Avoid Sports Drinks

If you’re a fan of sports drinks, you should cut these out of your diet, too. Because they contain a lot of sodium, they will increase your water retention. Make sure you avoid Powerade, Gatorade, and similar beverages during your recovery period. This will shorten the length of time you experience swelling. Drink lots of water instead to stay hydrated.

6. Take Daily Walks

Surgeons recommend you go for a brisk walk every day for the first few weeks after your surgery. You’ll prevent blood clots from forming and reduce swelling at the same time. Of course, you should still avoid intensive activities or exercise until your doctor gives you the green light.

7. Try Out Dry Skin Brushing

Dry skin brushing is similar in function to MLD therapy. It promotes better lymphatic drainage and brings other benefits. These include better immunity, skin refreshment, and improved cellulite, together with reduced swelling. You can do this yourself by using a brush with natural bristles. Brush your skin for 10 to 20 minutes before you go for a bath or shower. While you brush, use gentle, long strokes toward your heart.

8. Take Anti-Inflammatory Medications

Your surgeon may prescribe you painkillers after your liposuction to reduce swelling and alleviate pain. It’s important, though, to use these cautiously. They can thin the blood, and this slows the healing process. Make sure to follow your surgeon’s instructions when it comes to taking any medication. Alternatively, you can use over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling but only on your doctor’s advice.

Getting Professional Advice

Are you planning to have cankle liposuction? For the best outcome with minimal swelling, it’s important to choose a skilled cosmetic surgeon. Here at Artistic Lipo and Plastic Surgery, Dr. Su is an expert in the field. You can rely on his expertise to produce an impressive result. He will also offer you professional advice about how to minimize your post-procedure swelling. Contact us today to find out more about how we can help you to get the beautiful legs you desire. Our team is here to answer all your questions and to give you the advice you seek.