Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes small to moderate localized fat deposits. It has obtained excellent results in the past and continues to be the most popular plastic surgery in Colombia.
If you are planning to undergo liposuction, you should be wondering about the type of pain you can expect and how to control or lessen it. It is always best to be well informed beforehand and expect realistic things from a surgery. Although doctors will provide you with sufficient medication and self-care advice, it always helps to be prepared yourself.
Pain after liposuction
Patients receive a series of postoperative instructions. The amount of pain caused will depend on the type and amount of anesthesia used. Liposuction surgery in Bogota that is performed under intravenous sedation does not cause much pain and requires little or no pain control medication. But those who are operated under general anesthesia will experience more pain and are usually prescribed painkillers and other medications.
Pain management after liposuction
Recovery from liposuction can be accelerated through some very simple techniques. Just like any other surgery, the key is to keep close tabs on the surgery and religiously follow your doctor’s advice. Here are a few points to remember to combat pain after liposuction,
- Pain is usually more intense 2-4 days after surgery and then gradually decreases, so do not overdo it with any medication to curb that extra pain.
- The tenderness and pain usually go away on their own, so don’t try to cure it with some home remedies.
- In case you are planning to try any new pain medication, talk to your doctor first to be sure.
- It is prescribed to avoid painkillers such as aspirin, ibuprofen, Advil, etc. for the first 15 days. These medications can increase drainage and bruising and can slow blood clotting. They may also increase the chances of bleeding during surgery. Therefore, refrain from taking anything without your doctor’s advice.
Along with these, over-the-counter supplements should also be avoided, as they can slow blood clotting. Such concern is high for supplements containing vitamin E, but other herbal medicines also have the same effect. Therefore, be sure not to try anything new on your own during healing and rely only on the doctor’s prescription. - The patent will provide a compression garment for swelling and additional support for areas that have undergone liposuction. These things will also go a long way in minimizing pain and discomfort.
- The operated area may lose any sensation for a short period of time, but swelling may persist. Therefore, do not attempt to use hot or cold compressors, as they may cause frostbite or burns to the area.
Aside from these simple routines, also remember to follow these self-care tips,
- Movement- Basic movement such as walking and normal activities helps your muscles and fascia recover quickly from liposuction. It mobilizes body fluid, especially the lymphatic system.
- Massage – Regular massage of the operated area will help reduce swelling more quickly and greatly reduce pain. Keep these massages low at first, but once you get used to it, you can increase the time.
- Staying hydrated – Like other surgical techniques, even liposuction causes internal fluid changes. By consuming plenty of fluids, you basically help your body maintain its overall internal hydrations and heal faster.
- Anti-inflammatories – Anti -inflammatory ointments such as arnica-based creams should be used to massage the operated area to reduce swelling. But, remember, anti-inflammatories can cause excessive bleeding, so be sure to check with your surgeon.
Aside from following the ways mentioned above to minimize pain and swelling, you should also remember to stay away from strenuous activities for at least a month. Generally, people who have taken intravenous sedation return to normal life much faster than people who have had surgery under general anesthesia.
In addition, general anesthesia patients experience more nausea, pain and chills and are prescribed more medications to control their pain.
But, at any time, if you feel uncontrollable pain, you should visit your doctor immediately and clarify any doubts.
Therefore, keep a close eye on your recovery to have a great life after surgery.
