Laser Liposuction Recovery

Everyone heals differently, and every surgery is unique. Below is what a typical awake laser liposuction patient experiences. Obviously, smaller surgeries have quicker recoveries, and some sites of the body heal faster than others. Dr. Khalifeh will talk to you about your likely recovery at the time of your individualized consultation. Patients from out of town, click here to learn about your options.

Day one…the first few hours

Immediately after the procedure is finished, Dr. Khalifeh's team will place a compression garment to compress the procedure site. There may be a lot of fluid leaking, most of which is the original tumescent fluid that was placed for the numbing. You will need to protect your car seat going home and your couch/bed at home with towels to catch the fluid. Allowing the fluid to leak shortens the amount of time of swelling.

For any discomfort, you will typically have a mild narcotic and be placed on an antibiotic.

Day two…the day after

By the end of day 1, most of the fluid will have leaked out. Your movement about the home will be more comfortable. You may require a few pills of your pain medication. You will want to take the day off of work to help with the recovery. ou will be "sore" in the areas worked upon. Dr. Khalifeh recommends leaving the garment on until 72 hours post-surgery, but you can take a sponge bath and wash yourself around the garment.

Day three

You will remove the dressings and compression on day 3, shower, and then replace the compression only. Most people return to work on day 3. You will still be wearing your compression garment, fitted under your work clothes. Your activity is gradually increasing, and you may only need Tylenol or Advil at this point for any pain.

Day five-seven

At this point you will be able to do minor non-impact aerobic exercises such as walking, or the elliptical. You will start seeing some of the results, but you will also have some swelling and bruising. Overall, you will feel almost back to normal.

Day 14

At this point, the garment becomes optional, and many people stop wearing it. Most people return to their usual exercise regimen. Sexual activity can also be resumed at this point. You will start appreciating and seeing your results, although there will still be swelling. Dr. Khalifeh will see you for a follow up examination. The small incisions will have healed.

Day 30

The incisions have healed, but may still be a little red.

Day 360

The incisions are fading and become harder to see.