Liposuction aftercare
At Merchant Medical Group, we are dedicated to assisting you through your recovery following liposuction. Below is a general aftercare guide to help promote a smooth healing process. Keep in mind that recovery can vary from person to person, so it’s essential to follow the personalized advice provided by your surgeon.
MEDICATIONS
You will be provided with prescribed painkillers before discharge. If necessary, stronger medications like dihydrocodeine may be included.
FOLLOW-UP APPOINTMENT
You’ll receive information about your first follow-up appointment and contact details for any post-operative concerns.
TRANSPORTATION
Arrange for someone to drive you home and stay with you overnight if you’ve had a general anaesthetic.
A snug compression garment is important after your procedure to support healing, minimize swelling, and help contour the treated area.
We recommend purchasing your garment before surgery. Suitable brands include Macom and Lipoelastic, and you can find sizing guides on their websites to help you select the right fit.
Return to work will depend on your recovery and the nature of your job. We recommend taking at least one week off work. If your job involves significant movement or walking, you may need up to two weeks to fully recover.
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Week 1:
- Rest and Movement: Rest and light movement around your home are encouraged to promote circulation.
- Compression Garment: Wear your compression garment continuously, removing it only as advised for showering.
- Showering: Shower carefully without disturbing dressings or sutures. Gently pat the area dry.
- Swelling and Discomfort: Expect swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort, which can be managed with prescribed medications.
- Avoid Smoking & Alcohol: Avoid smoking and alcohol, as they can delay healing and worsen swelling.
- Driving: You may consider driving after the first week if you’re no longer on strong painkillers.
- Follow-up Appointment: Attend a nurse appointment to check your progress and remove any dressings or sutures. Week 2:
- Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising will begin to improve, though the treated area may still feel firm or tender.
- Compression Garment: Continue wearing your compression garment as advised.
- Return to Work: You may return to work if your job is office-based or non-physical. More physical jobs may require waiting until the end of this week. Weeks 3 and 4:
- Swelling Reduction: Most of the swelling (80–90%) will have settled, though some firmness or shooting pains as nerves heal may persist.
- Moisturize Incision Sites: Moisturize incision sites with plain moisturizer or bio-oil to aid scar healing.
- Exercise: Start gentle exercise after 4 weeks, gradually increasing to more strenuous activities by week 6.
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Seek immediate advice if you experience:
- Increased swelling, redness, or discharge at your incision sites.
- Swelling in your legs or shortness of breath, which could indicate a clot.
- Severe pain that is not relieved by medication.
- Side effects from medications, such as a rash, nausea, or vomiting.
- A persistent fever over 38°C (100.4°F).
- Any concerns about your recovery; we're here to support you every step of the way.
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Merchant City Medical Group is proud to be one of the leading providers of Hair Transplant Surgeries and Medical Aesthetics within the UK and Europe. With our extensive team of expert surgeons, nurse practitioners and consultants, you will be met with the utmost dedication and compassion throughout your journey with us.
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