Liposuction to remove excess fat from the body remains one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) in their annual survey of members, there were 200,000 liposuction procedures performed in 2013 by ASPS member surgeons. This made liposuction the fourth most popular cosmetic surgical procedure for 2013.

Of course, with all of these liposuction procedures being performed, there are also patients eager to show off their new, enhanced features to family and friends. This eagerness is precisely why Dr. Paul Pin takes the time to let patients know precisely what is involved in not only the procedure, but the post-operative healing period in terms of what to expect and the timeline for full healing.

Liposuction Procedure

A liposuction procedure is designed to remove stubborn pockets of fat on the body that do not respond to regular exercise and a sensible diet. Popular areas for liposuction include the abdomen, inner or outer thighs, back, hips, or waist. In the procedure, Dr. Pin will first make small incisions into the body at the specific areas where fat is to be removed. He will then insert a thin metal tube, called a cannula, through the incisions. The excess fat is then vacuumed out of the body. In some cases, ultrasound or lasers may be first used to help melt the fat, making it easier to remove from the body. A liposuction procedure can be done by itself, or in conjunction with a tummy tuck to remove excess loose skin.

Bruising Timeline after Liposuction

Bruising is a normal part of the healing process. It is the body's response to having the soft tissue injured, which will occur as a part of the fat removal process. The blood in the small veins, or capillaries, will seep out into the surrounding tissue, causing the distinctive purple color of a bruise. As the body heals, the bruising will fade.

In terms of liposuction, patients should expect the initial bruising to last for anywhere from seven to 10 days, depending on the location and extent of the liposuction procedure. Dr. Pin will provide patients with special compression garments to be worn over the liposuction site. This tightly woven, elasticized garment will put compression on the site, which will help reduce the amount of initial bruising following the procedure. Ice and cold compresses will also help reduce the bruising, as will taking the herb Arnica montana.

By the end of the second week after the procedure, most of the bruising should have faded. Patients can resume normal activities, such as driving or attending work or school. Patients are encouraged to move around as much as possible during this time to increase circulation and prevent blood or other fluids from pooling at the incision sites, which may prolong the bruising. A normal exercise routine can be resumed after the fourth week.

Patients who choose to undergo a liposuction procedure usually have already made an investment in their health and fitness. A liposuction procedure is the finishing touch to allow them to show off the results of their hard work. Patience during the healing phase will provide patients with the best possible results.