subject: What Can I Expect From The Recovery Period After My Liposuction? [print this page] Chances are good your liposuction procedure will be performed under local, rather than general, anesthesia. Depending on your doctor and how nervous you are, you may also be given some sort of sedative or anti-anxiety pill as well. You shouldn't feel any pain during the surgery itself, but these medication will probably leave you feeling groggy afterwards. You probably won't need to stay at the hospital or clinic overnight, but you should plan on having a friend or family member drive you home afterwards. You might want to have them bring some towels along to protect the car, as you will probably be draining a little still and you don't want to stain their seats.
If you live alone, it is a good idea to find someone to stay with you for at least the first day after your surgery, just in case you need any help. Most likely, though, you'll just want to rest. Some doctors advise a relaxed walk several hours after the surgery can be good for you, but only if you feel up to it, and you shouldn't walk alone.
In most cases, the anesthesia will last for somewhere between twelve and twenty-four hours after surgery. When it wears off, you may feel some pain. Many patients compare it to the ache you get in your muscles after you've worked out too hard. The pain will probably peak about two days after your surgery, and then go down from there. Be sure to talk to your doctor about what you plan to do to deal with the pain, as some medicines and herbal supplements can cause increased bleeding or interfere with the healing process.
You can expect some amount of swelling and bruising, so don't be disappointed if you don't look exactly like you'd hoped as soon as you get home. Also, be aware that you may be draining excess fluids from your incision sites for several days after your surgery. You should wear the compression garment as your doctor directs, as it will help in the drainage and healing processes.
You may also experience some amount of nausea due to the medication and to the trauma of surgery. It might be a good idea to keep some easy foods on hand, like crackers and a bottle of water. Some people find that the scent of peppermint oil eases nausea. As you begin to feel up to it, ease back into activity. Make sure you don't push it, because you don't want to overtax your body
Above all, follow your surgeon's orders. He or she can help you to know the exact timetable of your recovery. Make sure you go to all of your post-op appointments, and be sure to be open with your doctor as you discuss your symptoms and recovery.
