
Liposuction has been one of the most popular cosmetic procedures for decades and continues to be. At Sundance Body Sculpting, we perform it under local anesthesia to ensure patients can get back to their lives as quickly as possible.
One of the questions we get most often from patients coming to us for this life-changing procedure is about the recovery process, including what to expect and how long it lasts. With that in mind, let’s take a look at what you can expect during your lipo under local recovery process.
What is Lipo Under Local?
Liposuction under local anesthesia is a popular fat-removal technique. Instead of being put to sleep with general anesthesia, you are awake but comfortable during the procedure.
The procedure begins with an injection of tumescent solution into the targeted area. This solution consists of local anesthetic and a medication that shrinks the blood vessels to reduce blood loss and bruising. From there, a small cannula is inserted through tiny incisions in the skin. The cannula will break up and loosen the fat, which is then suctioned out from the body.
Benefits of Lipo Under Local
You can look forward a wide range of benefits with liposuction under local anesthesia, including the following:
- Fewer complications: Because there are fewer risks with local anesthesia, you don’t have to worry about as many complications.
- Shorter recovery: Since you don’t have to wait to wake up for general anesthesia or experience any of the possible side effects that can come with it, most patient’s recovery time is much shorter and they are able to return to their normal routines quickly.
- Shorter procedure time: Because local anesthesia works quickly, the total procedure time is much shorter than when it’s performed with general anesthesia.
- More precise: As you’re awake during the procedure, your surgeon is better able to move you around to ensure you receive the precise results you’re looking for.
Lipo Under Local Recovery Process
A short time after your liposuction under local anesthesia procedure, you will be able to go home. Once you get home, you will want to rest as much as possible. You’ll also want to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions, including how best to care for your incisions and keep the treatment area clean.
You will also want to wear a compression garment to ease swelling, and you’ll need to wear it for several weeks. During your recovery, you’ll also want to avoid alcohol and smoking and stay as hydrated as possible.
To manage any discomfort you experience, you can take over-the-counter pain relievers and use cold compresses.
In the first few days, expect swelling and bruising. This is normal and usually subsides within 1-2 weeks. During this time, light walks are encouraged to boost circulation, but you will still need to avoid any strenuous activities for at least 4-6 weeks.
Lipo Under Local Results
As the weeks go by, your swelling and bruising will dissipate and your results will become more obvious. Most patients start to see significant improvements after six weeks, but full results take slightly longer.
To maintain your results, you’ll want to stick to a healthy diet and exercise regimen. While the fat that’s removed won’t return, gaining weight could still negatively affect your results.
Schedule a Consultation
Want to learn more about liposuction under local anesthesia? Don’t hesitate to schedule a consultation with Sundance Body Sculpting today. Call our New York City office at 929.202.7089 or message us via our online contact form.