The recovery period following lipedema reduction surgery is split into several parts. Immediately post-surgery, patients should expect to be put into compression garments. They will return home the same day but will need someone to drive them home and preferably offer some help.
Over the next few days, patients will usually experience some pain, swelling and bruising. They should rest and stay well hydrated, continuing to wear their compression garments. After a couple of weeks, patients can return to most everyday activities. They must, however, avoid swimming, bathing, and rigorous exercise. Their surgeon will advise them when to start doing strenuous workouts and bathing again. They will also advise when to stop wearing compression garments. The results of surgery will typically be evident after a few weeks. Nevertheless, patients must wait 6 to 12 months to see the final outcome.
What Can Patients Expect Immediately After Surgery?
As surgeons carry out liposuction surgery with the patient under local anesthetic, you can go home the same day. You won’t be able to drive though. Therefore, you’ll need somebody to take you home and preferably stay with you for the first day or so. You may need some help around the house, so having someone on hand is a good idea.
Patients are put into compression garments immediately after their procedure. Wearing this as prescribed is crucial. These close-fitting garments support the tissues and reduce swelling to promote better healing.
While the local anesthetic is still effective, you’ll experience no discomfort. Eventually, you may start to experience some pain as time goes on. Often, you’ll receive pain medication to take to manage this discomfort. Alternatively, you can use over-the-counter painkillers.
Some patients have some bruising and swelling straight away. For others, this may not yet be evident. These side effects of surgery are completely normal due to trauma to the tissues.
Also Read – How Long Does It Take to Recover from Liposuction?
What Can Patients Expect in The First Week After Surgery?
For the first couple of days post-surgery, patients should rest and recuperate. After that, though, taking some gentle exercise such as short walks is essential. It will help you to avoid complications like blood clots. Avoid doing any strenuous exercise though, and don’t go swimming as it could cause infection. You must also avoid bathing for this reason. Showering is safe, but you should keep your incisions clean and dry.
If you’re experiencing swelling, using cold compresses can help. Elevating the treated limbs also helps to reduce swelling. You must wear your compression garments all the time, unless you’re showering. Attending your follow-up appointments is also imperative. These appointments give your surgeon the chance to check on your healing and to identify any possible complications.
When Can Patients Return to Normal Activities After Liposuction?
After a couple of days, patients can begin doing some gentle exercise, like taking short walks. After around a week, it’s possible to resume any household tasks that aren’t especially strenuous. Preparing meals, dusting, and washing up are examples of chores you can safely do.
Most patients can return to work after a couple of weeks (unless their job is very strenuous). If you work in a manual role, though, you may need to stay off work a little longer. Your surgeon can advise when it’s safe to return to the workplace.
Patients should avoid swimming or bathing until their surgeon gives the go-ahead. Patients should also avoid any rigorous exercise until the surgeon advises it’s safe.
Continuing to wear compression garments is also key. That will ensure that swelling is minimized and healing promoted. Your surgeon will tell you when to reduce the length of time you wear these and when to stop altogether.
When Will Patients See the Results of Their Lipedema Reduction Surgery?
It’s important for patients to have patience after lipedema reduction surgery. Post-surgery, the body continues to heal for several months. Results become increasingly noticeable over time. Nevertheless, patients usually begin to notice the benefits of surgery after a few weeks. Their limbs start to look smaller and less bulky. They also experience less pain in their limbs. Mobility will also start to improve.
In the long term, lipedema reduction surgery allows patients to enjoy a better quality of life. The surgery improves the appearance of the limbs, restoring a more proportionate body shape. As a result, patients benefit from improved self-esteem and greater confidence. As an added bonus, being able to move more easily makes exercising more comfortable. Patients can, therefore, start to live a more active lifestyle that enables them to avoid future medical problems.
Patients must be aware, though, that if their lipedema is at an advanced stage multiple surgeries may be necessary. To ensure you achieve the best possible outcome from your lipedema reduction surgery, you must choose the right surgeon. The surgeon you choose must be a specialist in the field with extensive experience. Dr. Su at ArtLipo is an expert in the field who produces outstanding results for patients. Get in touch now to learn more.