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Whether you are preparing for a vacation, an event, or the holidays, life can get busy. The last thing on your mind is diet restrictions and hours spent at the gym when you’re swamped at work or busy preparing for your trip. This is one reason why people are drawn to the benefits of liposuction.

With liposuction, you can achieve permanent results and a fast recovery time. Still, as is the case with any surgical procedure, there are a few things to consider before scheduling your liposuction procedure. If you’re hoping to use surgical fat removal to prepare for a vacation, event, or holiday, you’ll need to be familiar with the various stages of healing that occur after your procedure.

What to Expect From Liposuction Recovery

If you are considering liposuction, it’s important to know that this procedure requires seven to ten days of rest and recovery afterward. However, it’s essential to understand that completing those initial days of healing doesn’t mean you have recovered entirely. You may experience some localized tenderness after the first week of recovery, but deep tissue healing will require a more extended recovery period. Most patients wear a compression garment even after they return to work to help reduce swelling.

Inflammation is a normal part of the healing process—it’s how the body protects damaged tissue from further trauma. For liposuction recovery, it is often the most challenging part of the healing process. Though the swelling that follows isn’t generally painful, it can obscure the results by making the treated area look “puffy,” so results may not be fully revealed until after that swelling has subsided.

Swelling from your liposuction will take around 3-4 weeks to leave and reveal the lean, sculpted contours you’re looking for from your procedure. You must plan your surgery and vacation according to this recovery period.

3 Ways To Help Your Body Heal More Quickly

Though the healing process varies between liposuction patients, there are a few things you can do to optimize your recovery and assist the healing process:

1. Wear your compression garment as directed: Don’t remove your compression garment earlier than your surgeon advises, even if you are feeling better. The garment is designed to provide essential support for healing tissues, limit swelling, and encourage healing.
2. Optimize your lifestyle: Eat a healthy, balanced diet with anti-inflammatory foods. Also avoid high sugar drinks and alcohol, as these can lead to severe bruising and bleeding. Drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated and reduce swelling.
3. Rest: The key to a faster recovery is rest. Try not to do too much too quickly to prevent irritation at the incision sites, swelling, and the possibility of complications.

Learn More About Liposuction in Houston, TX

Dr. Christopher K. Livingston is a double-board certified plastic surgeon in Houston who has gained considerable notoriety throughout Southeast Texas for his detailed eye, exceptional patient care, and extensive knowledge. Livingston Plastic Surgery is wholly dedicated to providing you with a premium experience and unmatched results.

To see how liposuction can positively change your life, simply contact Livingston Plastic Surgery by calling (281) 501-1812 or contact us online through our website to schedule your personalized consultation with Dr. Livingston.