What to do to minimize pain after liposuction

Posted on: December 8, 2022

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes small to moderate localized fat deposits. It has obtained excellent results in the past and continues to be the most popular plastic surgery in Chicago.

If you are planning to undergo liposuction, you may be wondering about the type of pain you can expect and how to control or lessen it. It is always better to be well informed beforehand and to expect realistic things from surgery. Although doctors will provide you with plenty of medication and self-care advice, it always helps to be prepared yourself.

pain after liposuction

Patients receive a series of postoperative instructions. The amount of pain caused will depend on the type and amount of anesthesia used. Liposuction surgery in Chicago that is performed under intravenous sedation does not cause much pain and hardly requires medication to control pain. But those who are operated on under general anesthesia will experience more pain and are usually prescribed painkillers and other medications.

Control pain after liposuction

Liposuction recovery can be sped up through some very simple techniques. Like any other surgery, the key is to keep a close eye on the surgery and religiously follow your doctor’s advice. Below are some points to remember how to fight pain after liposuction,

  • Pain is usually at its worst 2-4 days after surgery and then gradually subsides, so don’t go overboard with any medications to curb that extra pain.
  • The tenderness and pain usually go away on their own, so don’t try to cure it with some home remedies.
  • In case you are planning to try any new pain medication, talk to your doctor first to be sure.
  • It is prescribed to avoid pain relievers like aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, etc. during the first 15 days. These medications can increase drainage and bruising and can slow blood clotting. They can also increase the chances of bleeding during surgery. Therefore, refrain from taking anything without your doctor’s advice.
    Along with these, over-the-counter supplements should also be avoided as they can slow blood clotting. Such concern is high in supplements containing vitamin E, but other herbal medicines also have the same effect. Therefore, make sure not to try anything new on your own during healing and rely only on the doctor’s prescription.
  • The patent will provide a compression garment for swelling and additional support for areas that have undergone liposuction. These things also go a long way in minimizing pain and discomfort.
  • The operated area may lose any sensation for a short time, but swelling may persist. Therefore, do not try to use hot or cold compressors, as they can cause frostbite or burns in the area.

Aside from these simple routines, also remember to follow these self-care tips,

  • Movement- Basic movement such as walking and normal activities help your muscles and fascia recover quickly from liposuction. Mobilizes body fluid, especially the lymphatic system.
  • Massage – Regular massage of the operated area will help to reduce swelling more quickly and greatly reduce pain. Keep these massages low at first, but once you get the hang of it, you can increase the time.
  • Stay hydrated – Like other surgical techniques, even liposuction causes changes in internal fluids. By consuming plenty of fluids, you basically help your body maintain its overall internal hydrations and heal faster.
  • Anti-inflammatories – Ointments should be used to reduce inflammation in the area, such as arnica-based creams, to massage the operated area and reduce inflammation. But remember, anti-inflammatories can cause excessive bleeding, so be sure to check with your surgeon.

Aside from following the ways mentioned above to minimize pain and swelling, you should also remember to stay away from strenuous activities for at least a month. In general, people who have had intravenous sedation return to their normal lives much faster than people who have had surgery under general anesthesia.

In addition, general anesthesia patients experience more nausea, pain, and chills and are prescribed more medications to control their pain.

But, at any time, if you feel uncontrollable pain, you should visit your doctor immediately and clarify the doubts.

Therefore, keep a close eye on your recovery to have a great life after surgery.