Liposuction Post-Operative Instructions
Following liposuction surgery, adhering to post-operative instructions is essential to support proper healing, reduce swelling, and optimize surgical outcomes. Patients should wear the prescribed compression garment, maintain adequate hydration, and attend all scheduled follow-up appointments as advised by their surgeon.
First 24 Hours After Liposuction
• Rest with head and upper body elevated.
• Before standing, sit on the bed and let your legs hang for 2–3 minutes.
• Take short walks every 2–3 hours to improve circulation.
• Avoid bending, lifting, or sudden movements.
• Do NOT drive or operate machinery.
• Wear compression garment at all times unless instructed otherwise.
• Mild tightness is expected.
• Pinkish fluid leakage from incision sites is normal and expected.
Preventing Dizziness
- Stand up slowly after sitting.
- Take deep breaths before walking.
- Have assistance when walking in the first 24 hours.
- Stay well hydrated.
If Dizziness Occurs:
- Sit or lie down immediately.
- Elevate legs slightly.
- Take slow deep breaths.
- Drink fluids once stable.
- Contact your surgeon if dizziness persists or you faint.
Drainage & Dressings
- Expect significant pink fluid leakage for the first 1–2 days.
- Reinforce dressings if soaked.
- Keep incision areas clean and dry.
- Do NOT seal wounds with waterproof dressings.
Diet & Hydration
- Start with sips of water after 6 hours, then light meals if tolerated.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Avoid alcohol and smoking.
- Reduce salt intake to control swelling.
- Follow a high-protein diet.
- Take multivitamins as advised.
After 48 Hours
- Continue light walking and gradually increase movement.
- You may shower after 24 hours.
- Remove garment only during shower and reapply immediately.
- Wear compression garment 24 hours daily for 4–6 weeks.
- Avoid gym, heavy lifting, or strenuous activity for 2 weeks.
- Begin lymphatic massage only if advised.
Swelling & Healing Timeline
- Swelling peaks around 3–5 days.
- Bruising may darken before fading.
- Final results visible after 6 months.
- Mild numbness and firmness are normal for several weeks.
Return to Work
- Light desk work may resume after 3–5 days depending on comfort.
- Physically demanding jobs can resume after 2 weeks.
Medications at Home
Take medications exactly as prescribed. Take tablets after food to prevent gastric irritation. Do NOT combine Tramadol and Panadol Night. Do NOT take Tramadol after midnight to prevent next-day dizziness.
Call the Surgeon Immediately If You Notice
- Fever above 38°C
- Severe increasing pain
- Excessive swelling on one side
- Shortness of breath
- Chest pain
- Foul-smelling discharge