VASER Liposuction Aftercare Tips From Dr Mitchell Kim

Recovery is an important part of liposuction surgery, whether your procedure is performed in Sydney, the Gold Coast, Canberra, Adelaide, or elsewhere in Australia. While surgical techniques may vary slightly, post-operative care and healing principles are broadly the same nationwide.

People researching liposuction in Sydney often ask what recovery actually involves and what to expect in the weeks following surgery. Understanding the recovery process helps set realistic expectations and supports safer healing.

This article is based on clinical information shared by Dr. Mitchell Kim, Registered Medical Practitioner (MED0001187435), practising at Levant Cosmetic Surgery.

Early recovery after VASER liposuction

The first few days after VASER liposuction are focused on rest and following the post-operative instructions provided by your medical practitioner. During this early stage, it is common to experience:

• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness or discomfort

These changes are a normal part of the healing process and vary from person to person. Patients are typically advised to:

• Rest and avoid strenuous activity
• Stay well hydrated
• Take prescribed medications as directed
• Begin wearing a compression garment if recommended

Compression garments and healing support

Compression garments are commonly used after liposuction surgery to help manage swelling and support healing tissues. Your medical practitioner will explain:

• When to start wearing the garment
• How long it should be worn each day
• How long it is usually required

Garment use is reviewed during follow-up appointments and may be adjusted depending on how your body is healing.

Lymphatic drainage and swelling management

Some patients are advised to include lymphatic drainage massage as part of post-operative care. This may be performed by trained professionals or, in some cases, by instructed support people at home.

Lymphatic drainage may assist with swelling management. Even with appropriate aftercare, temporary bruising, fluid accumulation, and firmness can still occur during healing.

What is normal in the first few weeks

Recovery timelines after liposuction tend to follow a similar pattern, although individual experiences vary. In the first few weeks, you may notice:

• Fluctuating swelling
• Areas of firmness under the skin
• Sensation changes such as numbness or sensitivity

These changes usually improve gradually and are monitored during follow-up care.

When to contact your medical practitioner

Most recoveries progress without complication. However, you should contact your medical practitioner if you experience:

• Increasing redness or warmth around incision sites
• Fever or feeling generally unwell
• Worsening pain that does not improve
• Unusual discharge from incision sites
• Sudden or significant swelling

Early review allows concerns to be assessed and managed appropriately.

Follow-up care after liposuction

Follow-up appointments are a standard part of care after liposuction in Sydney and throughout Australia. These visits allow your surgeon to:

• Monitor healing
• Assess swelling and tissue response
• Review compression garment use
• Address questions or concerns

Follow-up schedules may vary depending on the procedure and individual factors.

Returning to work and daily activities

Many people return to light, non-physical work within several days to a week after liposuction, depending on the areas treated, the physical demands of their job, and individual healing response.

Jobs involving lifting or prolonged physical activity may require additional time off, which is discussed during consultation and reviewed during recovery.

Exercise and movement during recovery

Gentle movement is often encouraged early in recovery to support circulation. More strenuous activity is usually delayed. Your medical practitioner will advise when it is appropriate to:

• Resume light walking
• Return to gym training
• Reintroduce resistance or core exercises

Returning to exercise too soon can increase swelling or discomfort, which is why guidance is personalised.

Travelling after liposuction

Some patients travel for liposuction in Sydney or other Australian cities. If travel is involved, short trips are often manageable once early recovery is stable, but longer flights may require additional planning regarding compression garment use and regular movement. Travel timing should be discussed during consultation.

What recovery looks like at six weeks and beyond

By around six weeks, many people notice reduced swelling, improved comfort, and more consistent changes in treated areas. Healing continues beyond this point, with subtle changes occurring over several months.

Why recovery looks different for everyone

Recovery after liposuction is not the same for everyone. Healing depends on factors such as individual anatomy, skin elasticity, extent of surgery, overall health, and weight stability. Post-operative advice is tailored and reviewed over time rather than given as a fixed checklist.

Final note

Recovery after liposuction is a gradual process. Improvements take time, and healing occurs at different rates for different people. Ongoing follow-up care helps ensure recovery is progressing as expected.

If you’re researching liposuction in Sydney or elsewhere in Australia, schedule a consultation with our experienced team at Levant Cosmetic Surgery. We prioritise your health and are committed to providing professional, expert care.

FAQs

How long does swelling last after liposuction?

Swelling is common in the first few weeks and gradually reduces. Some residual swelling can persist for several months.

Is bruising normal?

Yes. Bruising is common early on and usually fades over several weeks.

Will I feel lumps or firmness under the skin?

Temporary firmness or uneven texture can occur and often improves as healing progresses.

Do results continue to change over time?

Yes. Changes can continue as swelling resolves and the body heals.

Disclaimer: This article provides general information only and does not replace a medical consultation. Suitability for liposuction, recovery timelines, potential risks, and individual considerations are discussed in detail during consultation with a qualified medical practitioner.