How long will my stomach be swollen after liposuction?

The best treatment for lipo swelling is actually the passage of time! Swelling and inflammation after most plastic surgeries are common and it takes time until they subside and the results become noticeable.

There are some post-op instructions that help you get rid of swelling after liposuction surgery and heal faster. Following these tips and exercising some patience is key to a fast recovery from your liposuction procedure. Here are the instructions:

1. Wearing a compression garment is a must

Almost all surgeons prescribe a compression garment for their liposuction patients and tell them to wear it for a few weeks. The compression garment is your best friend on the path of recovery after lipo.

Coming in a variety of sizes and shapes, compression garments make support for your body while it heals. The constant pressure that a compression garment puts on your body suppresses the buildup of fluid under the skin and helps your body absorb the fluid faster, leading to decreased swelling. This way, you will see the results of your liposuction sooner.

Compression garments are essential for a fast recovery after liposuction.

Wearing a compression garment after lipo also helps your skin contract and fit the new contour of your body, which in turn prevents wrinkles and creases after the surgery. There are high-quality garments with anti-microbial, breathable fabric, which provide the maximum comfort and prevent skin irritation.

Be sure to wear the compression as instructed by your surgeon. Doctors usually recommend wearing the garment 24/7 during the first two weeks following the surgery (except when bathing and showering) and 12 hours a day for the next two weeks.

2. Apply ice packs on treated areas

Ice packs or cold compresses work their usual magic in reducing swelling, bruising, and discomfort after surgery. Applying these remedies to swollen parts of your body after liposuction for 15-20 minutes an hour can help in reducing swelling in the first and second day after surgery, but make sure to ask your doctor to give you detailed instructions as to how to apply cold compress after surgery, and how often, because wrong application may do more harm than good.

3. Undergo a massage therapy

A specialized type of massage called manual lymphatic drainage (MLD) is recommended by some surgeons for the liposuction recovery. This gentle massage can reduce swelling after liposuction by increasing the drainage of fluids that accumulate under the skin.

Check with your doctor and, if approved, meet a professional lymphatic drainage masseur two times a week and have a gentle massage. Keep in mind that the massage should be done gently so that not to increase bruising and discomfort.

A well-performed massage can also help you get rid of lumps after liposuction.

• Read More: How to get rid of lumps after liposuction?

4. Cut down on salt

Reduce your salt intake and get rid of swelling faster. Sodium causes the body to retain water, which in turn increases swelling or bloating. Keep the salt shaker off the table to prevent prolonged post-liposuction swelling on your abdomen, thighs, and other areas.

The sodium in salt causes the body to retain water, resulting in bloating and swelling.

5. No sports drinks; more water instead

Sports beverages are full of sodium and thus increase water retention in the body. It is recommended that you avoid sports drinks, such as Gatorade and Powerade, during the recovery period of your liposuction surgery in order to shorten the duration of the post-op swelling. Instead, drink plenty of water to keep your body hydrated.

6. Take short daily walks

Liposuction surgeons often recommend their patients to go for brisk walks on a daily basis during the first few weeks following surgery. This reduces swelling and prevents blood clots. Of course, this doesn’t mean that you engage in intense walking and running, or other strenuous physical activities.

7. Try dry skin brushing

Dry skin brushing has a function similar to lymphatic massage therapy. By promoting the lymphatic drainage of the body, it brings many benefits, including skin refreshment, improved immunity, improved cellulite, as well as reducing swelling. Brush your body using a natural bristle brush, available at many retail shops, 10-20 minutes before going for a shower or bath. While brushing, use long, gentle strokes toward the heart.

8. Take prescription anti-inflammatory drugs

Anti-inflammatory painkillers, such as aspirin and ibuprofen, alleviate not only pain, but also inflammation, and thus swelling. However, since these medications have a blood-thinning effect, which slows down healing, they should be taken with caution. Strictly follow your doctor’s instructions with regards to taking medications and unless prescribed by them, do not take over-the-counter anti-inflammatory drugs during your liposuction recovery. period.

• Read More: Guide to fast recovery after liposuction

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