Some pain after liposuction is normal and likely inevitable. However, the degree and length of the pain can differ from person to person and it is usually mild. For those who are interested in or planning on getting liposuction, this is understandably an important question. Managing your expectations for what is to come after the surgery is helpful and can help you understand what is normal and what isn’t. Should you be concerned with pain after liposuction?

Liposuction Procedure

Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that removes fat from one’s body. This is generally the remaining fat that cannot be removed through regular diet and exercise. Surgeons generally perform the surgery on one’s hips, belly, thighs, buttocks, back, arms, or face.

After surgery, Dr. Linville will likely provide you with a number of instructions for recovery and tips on any things to look out for that are abnormal during your recovery. This will help you avoid pain after liposuction.

It is important to note that the type of anesthesia and amount that you received during the actual operation can help determine the level of pain you will experience during the first few days after the surgery. In general, liposuction performed with intravenous sedation will likely result in less pain after your surgery. However, liposuction performed under general anesthesia results in more pain after liposuction surgery. This is something that you and Dr. Linville will have to discuss prior to the operation in order to see which is right for you.

Pain After Liposuction

Immediately after the procedure, there will be some pain or discomfort, but this will gradually get better. Basic tenderness and soreness in the areas where the procedure was performed are entirely normal. After the procedure, be sure to follow Dr. Linville’s orders for recovery. This is the most important part of the post-operation recovery process as they are the experts.

Below you will see a list of what you should and should not do post-surgery.

• Discuss what pain medication you can take with Dr. Linville. Be sure and let him know if you have any allergies or issues with any medications so they know what to prescribe.
• Avoid over-the-counter medications and supplements that are not a part of Dr. Linville’s orders. Some of the medicines and supplements can have negative effects post-procedure. For example, over-the-counter pain pills can slow blood clotting. Be careful and talk with Dr. Linville before you take anything that was not prescribed.
• Due to the loss of sensation in the areas where you have had the procedure, avoid hot or cold packs. The lack of sensation can lead to burns or frostbite.

Steps to Recovery

1. Take Your Medication as Prescribed: Managing your pain post-surgery is important. Some amount of pain is normal for the first few days so taking your medication will ensure that you are able to relax as your body heals. If your pain medication is no longer effective, then it’s time to call Dr. Linville as there may be something that needs attention.
2. Focus on Recovery Versus Results: You may want to see the results of your procedure, but it can take weeks to months to fully heal. For the first couple of weeks, your goals should include managing your pain, ensuring proper healing, and controlling any swelling. Stress about results can inhibit your recovery time so focus on relaxing.
3. Wear Bandages and Compression Garments: Due to the swelling post-procedure, you’ll need to wear a compression garment and possibly elastic bandages. These will help with swelling and your overall recovery. Follow Dr. Linville’s instructions to ensure timely recovery.
4. Ease Slowly into Daily Life: You may want to get right back to work or your normal daily routine. Your body needs rest though. Focusing on easing back in and giving yourself the necessary time to heal is important for your overall health. Too much too soon can cause complications post-procedure making your recovery time even longer.
5. Care for Your Wounds: It’s really important to take good care of your wounds. You may have drains in your wounds for a few days to drain any fluids. You may also need to take antibiotics to prevent infection. Follow Dr. Linville’s orders for wound care and take it seriously.
6. Complications: Every surgery has a risk for complications. If at any point you are concerned about your health, call Dr. Linville immediately.

Cosmetic Surgery in Houston

If you are interested in liposuction or just have some preliminary questions, Dr. Cain Linville at Linville Plastic Surgery is a top plastic surgeon in Houston. Dr. Linville specializes in all surgical and nonsurgical cosmetic surgeries. He is one of the few double board-certified plastic surgeons in the area. His main focus is providing the safest procedures with the very best patient outcomes.