Introduction: VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions
VASER Liposuction remains the gold standard in liposuction options. When performed circumferentially, it can provide high-definition body contouring results. Termed HD lipo 360, this circumferential procedure allows your surgeon to sculpt you like you are a glorified statue. Regardless, this surgery is very complex and requires stringent compliance with VASER liposuction postoperative instructions.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Dressings
The small incision sites used to perform your liposuction will be covered with gauze. Depending on the location of your fat removal, you will wake up wearing a pressure garment & foam compression garments. Most patients will wear a pressure garment for approximately 2-4 weeks following surgery which should be always kept on except when showering. Do not remove garments or shower without prior consent from the doctor.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Sutures
Your gauze will be removed at your one-week period but small white tapes called Steri-Strips will be kept in place for approximately 1 month. A small amount of drainage on your gauze and your garments is normal. Avoid using your nice bedding on your bed for one week following surgery until all drainage has subsided.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Activity
Start walking as soon as possible; this helps to reduce swelling and bruising and lowers the chance of forming blood clots in your legs. Discuss your time off from work with your surgeon; this varies according to the specific surgery but ranges from just one week and up to one month. Activities involving the use of the operated sites should be minimized for at least 2 weeks.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Driving
Do not drive while taking prescription pain medicines (narcotics). You may resume driving when you are off of your pain medications.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Ice Packs
Do not apply heat or ice to the surgical areas.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Exposure to Sunlight
Protect your incisions from sun exposure for up to 6 months after surgery. Remember to wear a hat or sunscreen with a skin-protection factor (SPF) of at least 30 whenever you go outside.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Loss of Sensation
Expect temporary numbness, bruising, swelling, and soreness following liposuction. You may experience reduced or absent sensation for up to one year following surgery. As the sensory nerves regenerate, patients normally experience tingling, shooting sensations, or itching. Massaging the areas usually relieves the symptoms.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Exercise
Strenuous exercise and activities such as sports should be avoided for at least 3 weeks, depending on the extent of the surgery. Clearance will be provided by the doctor.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Washing Garment
You may wash your garment at any time. DO NOT wash the foam. Be sure to replace the foam and garment after washing.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Showering
The compression garments, foam, and/or wrap placed on you at the time of surgery should be worn continuously for 2-4 weeks after surgery. Your surgeon will tell you exactly how long you need to wear your compression garments. After your first post-operative appointment, you may shower 1 day following removal of drains. After he gives consent, you may remove your garments/wraps and shower but you should put them back on after your shower. Do not remove any Steri-Strips. After showering, pat your skin dry and avoid rubbing your Steri-Strips.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Use of Bathroom
There is an opening in the garment to facilitate the use of the restroom. You do not need to remove the garment to use the bathroom. If necessary, the garment may be removed only to have a bowel movement.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Follow up Visit
You will be seen throughout the first week following surgery. Patients may then be asked to return to the office at 2 weeks, 3 weeks, 1 month, 2 months, 3 months, 6 months, and 1 year depending on the specific procedure performed and how you are progressing. Out-of-town patients will be arranged for postoperative follow-ups virtually. Be patient as final results will be most appreciated at your three-month postoperative visit.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions: Day of Surgery
The day of your surgery and the first 24 hours after is the most critical time period for you.
If you experience excessive pain, bleeding, fullness, or redness in treatment areas; heavy tongue and metallic taste; ringing in the ears; or fever or vomiting please call us immediately!
In the case of an emergency please call 911 immediately.
You must also have your surgeon’s cell phone number so that you can contact him/her in case of any concerns.
What to Expect After the Procedure
Having the proper expectations after VASER liposuction is important. Remember, the goal of fat removal is not weight loss, but improved contour. For the majority of patients, the goal is to achieve significant improvement in their body contour.
What you might experience after VASER liposuction
- Since the body retains fluids in response to surgery, you may notice some swelling and a temporary weight gain for the first few weeks or so following surgery.
- Lower abdominal patients may experience significant swelling and bruising in the pubic area; men are advised to wear an athletic supporter after surgery. If areas on the thighs were treated, you may have swelling in your calves and ankles for up to 3 weeks.
- Bruising is generally minimal with VASER liposuction, but the more extensive the surgery, the more bruising one can expect.
- Itching, pulling, pinching, hardness, tightness and/or numbness sensations are also normal as part of the healing process. All usually subside within 24 hours to 1 week after surgery, but sometimes can last for months.
- Post-operative discomfort usually takes the form of deep muscle soreness and normally improves over the following 2 to 7 days.
- Slight temperature elevation during the first 48 hours is due to collapsed air cells in the lungs. Deep breaths taken 10x every hour should help re-inflate the air cells and reduce your temperature.
- Nausea may likely be caused by post-operative medications; take them with food whenever possible. An anti-nausea patch and oral medication were prescribed to help with nausea. If you experience any post-operative nausea, try carbonated sodas and dry crackers to help settle your stomach.
- You may initially experience a mild depression (post-surgical blues) that should begin to improve after the second week once you are off of your pain pills.
- Menstrual irregularities (premature or delayed monthly onset) are a common side effect to surgery.
- Patients may experience constipation caused by the use of pain medications. Stool softeners (prescribed or over the counter) may be taken to ease discomfort and provide relief.
Routine activities Post-VASER Liposuction surgery
Driving
A family member or friend 18 years or older must drive you home from surgery. It is important to have them stay and assist you for the first 24 to 48 hours.
- Do not drive yourself for at least 2 days after general anesthesia or intravenous sedation, or while taking prescription pain medication.
Diet
If your stomach feels normal (no nausea), start slowly with liquids and bland foods, progress to soups or gelatin, and finally resume a regular diet. Drink plenty of clear fluids.
- It is important to eat and drink as soon as possible after surgery.
- If you have no appetite after surgery, buy Ensure or Boost to supplement your diet. A balance of calories and nutrition is important for post-surgery healing.
- Low-sodium, bland foods may reduce any swelling, while high-sodium foods may cause increased swelling post-operatively.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Compression Garments
Following your procedure, you will be wearing a post-surgical compression garment. The garment will provide comfort and support helping your skin conform to your new body contour. Patients who have opted to have Vaser liposuction to Upper Abdomen, Lower Abdomen, and/or Flanks will be provided with a customized foam vest. The foam vest is to be worn underneath the compression garment as instructed.
The garment must be worn 24/7 for a period of one month. Neck patients must wear chin garments for 5 full days with no removal followed by 4 to 7 days as often as possible. At your 2-week to 1-month follow-up appointment, you will be given instructions on how often you should continue to wear your garment.
You may only remove the compression garment for laundering, sponge bathing, and bandage changing. It is normal to experience light-headedness when rising removing and changing your compression garments. Please have somebody help you with this for the first few days following your procedure.
Please DO NOT wear tight-fitting clothing including bras, belts, and boxer shorts. You must make sure that clothing or anything you wear over your garment, even as far as your 1-month period following surgery, are not tight as these could indent your skin.
Garment & Vest Washing Instructions; only hand wash with light detergent (max temp 78°F), do not use bleach, do not tumble dry, do not iron, do not dry clean, and do not remove stains with solvents. Please wipe the 4D vest down, do not attempt to wash it unless heavily soiled.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Bathing or Showering
You may not take a shower while drains are in place. Your surgeon will tell you when you can take a shower. Baths should be avoided for the first month. Whirlpools and hot tubs are permitted only after your incision sites have closed, usually one month after surgery.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Therapeutic Massage
For your maximum healing and optimal long-term results, it is imperative that you follow the schedule of appointments established for you and complete all of the agreed aftercare sessions. You may require more sessions than originally instructed. Please take a Painkiller(s) as prescribed at least 1 hour prior to the session as you will have customized lymphatic massages at each of your sessions, which may cause some discomfort.
- First post-op appointment: This will occur within 48 hours of your surgery. Please arrive for your first aftercare session as you were when you left the surgery center i.e. do not take a shower, change your dressings, take your garment off or try to manage your drains. Please bring your second garment. Take your pain pill as you will have a customized massage that may cause discomfort.
- Second post-op appointment: This will occur at Day 3-4 following surgery. Please wash the garment you arrived in. It needs to be clean and ready for the next aftercare session. (See post-operative instructions for washing details.) Please note that you will have a second massage at this appointment. Do not forget to take your pain pill prior to arrival. Arrive in loose and comfortable clothing. If you wish to change into fresh clothing following your aftercare session, please bring a change of loose clothing. Please note your clothing may become stained.
- Third post-op appointment: This will occur at Day 4-6 following surgery. Please remember to take your pain pill prior to arrival as you will have another massage session.
- Fourth post-op appointment: This will occur at Day 6-8 following surgery and will require more aggressive massaging using ultrasound technology. Please remember to take your pain pill prior to arrival.
- Fifth post-op appointment: This will occur at Day 8-10 following surgery and will require more aggressive massaging using ultrasound technology. Please remember to take your pain pill prior to arrival.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Activity
Rest for the first 12 hours. Take it easy the first week, resuming normal activity as tolerated. Experiencing more than mild swelling or discomfort may indicate that you are over-doing it.
- Avoid strenuous activities, lifting objects over 10 lbs., or aerobic exercise for 2 to 3 weeks.
- Protect incisions and any bruised areas from the sun until completely healed. Use SPF 30 or greater for at least 6 months.
- Avoid tanning until pigmentation change has faded, which can take up to 3-6 months.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Alcohol
Alcohol can dilate your blood vessels, which may increase risk of post-operative bleeding. Also alcohol combined with medication can be dangerous. It is especially important that you do not consume alcohol as long as you are taking over the counter or prescription pain medication or antibiotics.
VASER Liposuction Postoperative Instructions regarding Smoking
We continue to stress the importance of not smoking. Smoking of any kind reduces capillary flow in your skin and can slow healing time and even cause skin compromise. Smoking may be a contraindication to certain high-definition liposuction procedures. Do not smoke at all during the first month before or after surgery.
Post-Operative Treatment Site Care
Keep your dressings as clean and dry as possible, changing daily to help prevent infection, but do not remove them unless instructed.
- Do not apply heat or ice to the surgical areas.
- Expect some drainage (oozing) from your incisions but try to keep dressings dry at all times.
- Cover your incision(s) if your garments are rubbing on them with dressings.
Post-Operative Medications
The following medications may have been taken by your physician
Final Note
It is important to listen to your body and rest when you need to. Take time for yourself and follow all of the instructions provided. Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions or concerns.
een prescribed. Take as directed. If you are unable to take any of the medications for any reason, please contact our office so we can arrange for alternative medications.
operative Instructions
| Medication | Directions | |
| Transdermal Scopolamine | Apply to back at the time of surgery | |
| Zofran 8mg | Take one pill twice a day as needed for nausea | |
| Norco 5/325mg | Take one pill every 4-6 hours as needed for pain | |
| Colace 100mg | Take one pill twice daily for 7 days following surgery or as needed | |
| Keflex 500mg | Take one pill three times daily starting 2 days prior to surgery and for 14 days after surgery | |
| Cipro 500mg | Take one pill twice a day starting 2 days prior to surgery and 14 days after surgery | |
| Medrol Dose Pack | To take as prescribed |
Conclusion: VASER liposuction Postoperative Instructions
In summary, VASER liposuction postoperative instructions are critical to your cosmetic surgery success. We hope that you find our instructions helpful. Keep in mind that each high definition surgeon will have his/her own instructions that should be followed explicitly and that the above article only serves as a general guide. Liposuction results week by week will evolve and result in potential modification of postoperative instructions.
