If you’re having liposuction, it’s normal to worry about how much pain you’ll be in afterwards. Setting realistic expectations, learning about pain medications, and preparing for self-care after your procedure can help take the fear out of recovery.
Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery procedure to remove small to moderate localized fat deposits. It is also called suction lipectomy, lipoplasty, liposculpture or simply lipoplasty.
Pain after liposuction
After liposuction, you will be given a series of post-operative instructions. The type of anesthesia and the amount used determine the level of pain experienced during the first few days after liposuction.
Liposuction performed under intravenous (IV) sedation results in less postoperative pain and rarely requires medication other than Tylenol (acetaminophen).
Liposuction performed under general anesthesia usually results in more severe pain that requires prescription pain medication.
What to expect
Some things to expect about post-liposuction pain and pain management are:
- Pain is at its worst two to four days after surgery.
- Tenderness and soreness are typical, but will eventually fade.
- You will be given a compression garment to reduce swelling, provide support and relieve pain in the liposuction area.
- Compression bandages should not be tight enough to reduce blood flow.
- You will have some loss of sensation in the area, so do not use heat or ice on the area as this can lead to burns or frostbite.
Medicines and supplements
Be sure to talk to your doctor about medications—both prescription and over-the-counter—and any supplements you may be taking to see if there are any special instructions you need to follow.
- Discussing your pain medication with your doctor can ensure that you are receiving the appropriate medication and know how to use it.
- You may need to avoid nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as aspirin, Motrin/Advil (ibuprofen), and Aleve (naproxen) before liposuction because these drugs can affect blood clotting.
- You should also avoid NSAIDs for the first two weeks after liposuction.
- Over-the-counter supplements, especially vitamin E, should also be avoided as they may slow blood clotting.
- Do not try new medications or supplements while you are being treated.
Recovery after liposuction
Most of the swelling and pain after liposuction is the result of the residual anesthetic used during the procedure remaining under the skin. Time and use of the compression garment allow the anesthetic to drain.
After liposuction, you are encouraged to do light physical activity such as walking, which helps prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. Strenuous activity should be avoided for a month.
If you had IV sedation, you will return to a normal work schedule more quickly than if you had general anesthesia.
Liposuction under general anesthesia usually has a higher incidence of nausea, vomiting, and chills and usually requires prescription pain management.
You will likely have some pain for weeks after surgery. However, if you feel excessive pain or your pain lasts longer than you think it should, contact your doctor.
