January 30, 2016 | 3 minute read
Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures available. This treatment yields lasting, natural results, and it can dramatically enhance your figure. If you are at a healthy weight, and you have unwanted pockets of fat, you may be a candidate for liposuction. Dr. Henry will gently vacuum out the stubborn fat, using a small tube called a cannula. She can perform liposuction on almost any part of the body. However, the most common treatment sites include the abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, upper arms, and male breasts. If you are considering liposuction, you may be concerned about the recovery. Fortunately, the treatment involves minimal discomfort and negligible downtime. Plus, we proudly offer laser-assisted SmartLipo™, which can make recovery even easier. To learn more about the liposuction recovery timeline, contact our San Francisco, CA practice today.
Liposuction Recovery Timeline
Liposuction recovery will vary somewhat, depending on the size of the treatment area. Immediately after your procedure, you will need to wait in an observation area. Dr. Henry and our team can then monitor your safety as the anesthesia wears off. You will be able to return home the same day, although you should have a ride home. You may also want someone to stay with you for a few days to help with daily activities, such as cooking.
Full liposuction recovery typically takes a few weeks. Common side effects include swelling, bruising, and soreness. In most cases, you will need to take about a week off from work. You can resume your regular exercise routine within a few days. While you are recovering, wear your compression bandage or garment to stimulate healing. It will also enhance your results so that your skin will heal naturally and smoothly.
Faster Recovery with SmartLipo™
Dr. Henry also offers SmartLipo™. This innovative method of liposuction offers comparable results to traditional treatment. The difference lies in the use of laser technology. Dr. Henry will first use high-power laser energy to break up fat deposits. Then she can suction them out with minimal impact to the surrounding tissue. Dr. Henry can typically perform SmartLipo™ under local anesthesia. Therefore, your immediate post-treatment recovery will also be easier. After SmartLipo™, you will still need to take a few days off from work. You may also need to avoid strenuous activity for a few weeks. Dr. Henry will guide you as you return to your regular exercise routine.
Post-Recovery Results
After traditional liposuction or SmartLipo™, the full effects of your treatment will not appear for several weeks. Swelling may obscure the results, and your skin may appear somewhat loose. Nevertheless, swelling will subside after several weeks, and your skin will gradually adhere to the new contours of your body. As your recovery progresses, your figure will start to look noticeably slimmer and younger. Liposuction results are permanent, although you will need to maintain a proper diet and exercise to prevent future weight gain.
Contact Us for More Information
To learn more about liposuction recovery and to find out if the treatment is right for you, contact Dr. Henry’s office today.
