After routine liposuction, it is normal to expect the following signs and symptoms:
1. Bruising – despite the use of "tumescent" solution, some bruising is normal. This will take 2-3 weeks to resolve.
2. Swelling – most MDs recommend the use of compression garments that help keep the swelling under control and feel protective while you are swollen. You can expect to wear your garment for up to 6 weeks.
3. Water retention – seen as weight gain. Stop weighing yourself! Give yourself at least 6 weeks for the majority of the initial surgical swelling and water retention to be processed by your kidneys, and to be eliminated.
4. Fatigue – you will not feel like yourself for at least a few weeks after liposuction. Your body is busy recovering from surgery; you will not have the usual energy to perform all your usual activities during the daytime. Ensure you have some helpers to assist with your activities of daily living, child care, house work, tasks around the home, etc. Be sure to take as much time as you realistically need off work!
