Welcome to "swell hell" - the peak of swelling and discomfort. This is completely normal and temporary. Here's how to manage these early days.
What to Expect on Day 2
Day 2 after liposuction is often the most challenging. Patients commonly refer to the first 72 hours as "swell hell" because swelling peaks around day 2. This is your body's natural response to surgery and it will improve.
Normal Symptoms
Significant swelling - the treated areas will be very swollen and puffy
Soreness and tenderness - feels like intense muscle soreness after a very hard workout
Bruising - yellow, purple, or green bruising around treated areas
Tightness - the compression garment and swelling create a tight, restricted feeling
Fluid drainage - clear, pink, or blood-tinged fluid leaking from incisions is normal
Fatigue - you'll feel tired and want to sleep a lot
Limited mobility - moving carefully and slowly is normal
This is Normal
Drainage is expected. You may see clear or blood-tinged fluid leaking from the small incision sites for the first 2-3 days. This is tumescent fluid (the solution injected during surgery) draining out, and it's actually beneficial. Place towels over your bedding and furniture to protect them.
Managing Discomfort
Pain Management
Take your prescribed pain medication on schedule, don't wait until pain is severe
Most patients find the discomfort is more soreness than sharp pain
Pain typically peaks on day 2 and improves significantly by day 4-5
Set alarms to take medication on time, especially at night
Swelling Management
Keep your compression garment on at all times except when showering (if permitted)
Stay elevated when resting - use pillows to prop yourself up slightly
Gentle walking is encouraged - even just to the bathroom and around your home helps circulation
Stay hydrated - drink plenty of water to help flush out anaesthesia and support healing
Ice packs can be used over the compression garment for 15-20 minutes at a time (never directly on skin)
Compression Garment Care
Your compression garment is essential for good results. Here's what you need to know:
Wear it 24/7 for the first few weeks (except brief showers if permitted)
It should feel snug but not cutting off circulation
The garment reduces swelling, supports healing tissues, and helps skin retract
You may need to empty drainage pockets or change absorbent pads
If it feels too tight or you develop numbness/tingling, contact your surgeon
Don't Remove Your Garment
Even though it's uncomfortable, resist the urge to remove your compression garment. It's working hard to control swelling and support your new contours. Taking it off can lead to increased swelling and potentially affect your results.
Activity Guidelines
What You Should Do
Walk gently every few hours - even 2-3 minutes around your home helps prevent blood clots
Rest and sleep - your body needs energy to heal
Stay hydrated - aim for 8-10 glasses of water daily
Take stool softeners - pain medication causes constipation
What to Avoid
No strenuous activity - no exercise, heavy lifting, or straining
No driving - not while taking pain medication or if you can't react quickly
No alcohol - it thins blood and interferes with healing
No smoking - significantly impairs healing and increases complications
No hot baths or saunas - heat increases swelling
Don't skip medications - take antibiotics and pain relief as prescribed
Wound Care
The incision sites are tiny (usually 3-5mm) but still need gentle care:
Keep the areas clean and dry as much as possible
Drainage is normal for 2-3 days - use absorbent pads or towels
You may shower if your surgeon permits (usually after 24-48 hours)
Gently pat the areas dry, don't rub
Don't pick at scabs or dried blood around incisions
Signs of infection include increasing redness, warmth, pus, or foul odour - contact your surgeon immediately
Emotional Wellbeing
It's common to feel emotional during early recovery:
You may feel overwhelmed by the swelling and bruising - this is temporary
Post-anaesthetic blues are common in the first week
You might question your decision - this usually passes as you start to heal
Focus on small improvements day by day rather than expecting instant results
Reach out to your surgical team if you're struggling emotionally
Remember
Day 2 is typically the hardest day. By day 4-5, you'll feel significantly better. Most patients say "I felt so much better than I expected by the end of the first week." You're doing great - just get through these first few days.
When to Contact Your Surgeon
Contact your surgical team immediately if you experience:
Fever above 38°C (100.4°F)
Severe pain not controlled by medication
Excessive bleeding or drainage
Signs of infection (increasing redness, warmth, pus, foul smell)
Chest pain or difficulty breathing
Calf pain or swelling in one leg (potential blood clot)