This summer may be shaping up to look far different than the past two years. If you are eyeing a warm and relaxing location to visit in the coming months, you’ve got a lot on your plate. The last thing you want to have to think about is what is on your plate at every meal. When shorts and swimsuits are part of the near future, though, it can be difficult to think of much else besides how great you want to feel wearing your favorite vacation outfits. At the same time, you may have little to invest in working out at the moment. For many people, getting liposuction is an exciting part of preparing for a great vacation. The results of liposuction last far beyond those few days on the beach or by a pool. Still, would you have time to schedule this procedure and still look amazing when you want? Let’s take a look.
Liposuction Recovery: What to Expect
The real question about liposuction before a vacation or any other big event is whether or not you can be fully recovered by the time you need to be. Generally, patients are advised to take about a week off from their normal routine to recover from this procedure. That does not mean the body will completely recover in that time frame. Localized tenderness can persist beyond the first week of recovery, and the deep healing that goes on can take even longer. Inflammation is a natural part of the process of recovery. It’s integral to tissue repair but can lead to side effects like bruising and swelling. This can be the most challenging aspect of liposuction recovery. You may feel well enough to return to most of your normal activities but, deep down, your body still requires a bit more rest and care than it may in a few months. Plus, visible swelling can obscure those body contours you want to show off. We understand. You don’t want to show up at the pool, beach, wedding, or other event looking puffy. So what can you do?
Helping Your Body Heal after Liposuction
First, if you want to have liposuction for a special event, know that it typically takes 3 to 4 weeks for the area to look sculpted and slim. The wise choice is to lean toward the longer period and schedule liposuction at least one month before the target date.
While liposuction recovery can vary from one person to another in terms of timing and the severity of side effects, there are ways that every person can maximize this process. Suggestions include:
- Wear compression. The post-operative instructions for liposuction patients discuss how to wear compression appropriately. At first, this may be 24 hours a day, except when bathing. The point of compression is to support healing tissues, reduce swelling, and promote comfort.
- Optimize lifestyle choices. Starting before surgery, it is helpful to eat a highly nutritious diet and foods that decrease inflammation naturally. You may already do so as a part of your weight loss or weight management habits. Additionally, it is wise to avoid tobacco, nicotine, and alcohol. Doing so can reduce the risks of bleeding and bruising. Finally, after liposuction, drink plenty of water. If you currently only consume the bare minimum of 64 ounces a day, try to increase this by 12 to 24 ounces. Doing so will help the body eliminate toxins and wastes associated with tissue repair.
- Rest. Rest is one of the very best things you can do after surgery. It is when you sleep that your body engages in rejuvenating and repair functions. There is absolutely no benefit to doing too much too soon after liposuction. On the other hand, there are several benefits to rest.
Is there time before you want to look your very best? Contact us at (512) 450-1077 to schedule your liposuction consultation now.
