The Recovery Process After Lipo 360- What to Expect

Lipo 360 is one of the most successful methods to get a contoured and sculpted physique. It is an effective cosmetic surgery to remove excess fat from 4 areas of the midsection – abdomen, back, flanks and waist. Unlike traditional liposuction, it targets all 4 areas together, resulting in entire midsection fat removal in one session. The result of Lipo 360 is much more effective and aesthetic as it produces a symmetrical and sculpted body for a defined look. However, as it targets multiple areas together, understanding the recovery process is crucial to taking proper care of yourself. In this article, we will outline the recovery process following Lipo 360 so that you may set realistic expectations before undergoing surgery. 

Immediate Post-Surgery

Duration: The first 2-3 hours.

Waking Up from Anesthesia: Right after the Lipo 360 surgery, you may feel disoriented, sleepy, or groggy as the anesthesia wears off. You will be under close observation to ensure a safe wake-up from anesthesia. The doctors will treat any pain or discomfort with medication. 

Compression Garment: You will be wearing a compression garment, which will reduce swelling and bleeding. It also provides good support to your contoured body which promotes healing. 

Fluid Drainage: Fluid and blood may drain from the incisions. This is normal and can be removed using small drainage tubes. 

Medication: The treated areas will be covered with dressings, and you will be given the required medications to take during the recovery period. 

24 Hours After Surgery

Duration: The first 24-48 hours.

Symptoms: You may feel some swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated areas. You may also feel tired and sore due to fluid draining from the incisions. Doctors will most likely give you pain medication to alleviate any pain or discomfort. Compression garments are also important to reduce swelling and encourage support. 

Rest and Limited Movement: Taking as much rest as possible is important to recover from anesthesia and surgery procedures. Light movements like gentle walks are acceptable but avoid heavy activities or gym. 

Instructions: Stick to all the post-operative instructions given to you by the surgeon, including medicines, dressing, hygiene, food, movement and follow-up appointments. 

First Week of Recovery

Swelling and Bruising: They are most noticeable and common during the first week. To help your body recover and to reduce swelling, wear compression garments. 

Mobility: Light activity like walking and light exercise is allowed in the first week of recovery to improve blood circulation. However, heavy lifting, bending, and twisting, which can cause strain, should be avoided. 

Rest: The first week is crucial, so it’s best to take a week off from work as per your job and rest properly.

Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a healthy diet are important to encourage healing. Drinking plenty of water and eating nutrition-rich foods will aid in recovery.

1 Month After Surgery

Swelling reduction: You will see some noticeable improvements in swelling and bruising. There may be some puffiness in certain areas, but most of the swelling will have subsided. You may still need to wear a compression garment to help with swelling and offer better support. 

Physical Activity: Your energy level will gradually improve, and you can resume light activities, exercises, and low-impact workouts. Exercises like light jogging, walking, stretching, and yoga is permissible. 

Pain and Discomfort: Even discomfort and pain decrease after 1 month, making you feel pain-free and relaxed. Some pain may persist in treated areas, but it’s easily manageable. 

Conclusion

The first month after surgery is critical, and you should take special care at this time. You will be monitored for the first few hours after surgery until the anesthesia wears off. After that, you can go home with the assistance of someone, and for the first 24 hours, be sure to get enough rest. A compression garment is crucial to wear for at least 2 months to support healing. After one month, the pain and soreness reduce, and slowly, you can return to your regular routine.