Preparation

Welcome to Your Recovery Hub

The Recovery Hub is designed to support you through every stage of your liposuction journey. From preparation through to your final results, you'll find practical advice, realistic expectations, and reassurance along the way.

Each stage of this guide will help you understand what's normal, what to watch for, and how to optimise your recovery.

Before Your Surgery

Medical Preparation

• Stop smoking at least four weeks before your procedure. Smoking impairs healing and increases the risk of complications.
• Discontinue blood-thinning medications as directed by your surgeon. This includes aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements like fish oil, vitamin E, and ginkgo.
• Maintain a stable weight - avoid significant weight changes in the weeks leading up to surgery.
• Stay well-hydrated - drink plenty of water in the days before surgery to support healing.
• Provide a complete medical history including all medications, supplements, and any previous surgeries.
• Attend your pre-operative assessment if required, to ensure you're fit for surgery.

Practical Arrangements

• Arrange for someone to collect you from the hospital. You cannot drive or take public transport home after a general anaesthetic.
• Ensure someone can stay with you for at least the first 48 hours after surgery.
• Take time off work - plan for 1-2 weeks, depending on your job and the extent of treatment.
• Prepare your recovery space with a comfortable recliner or extra pillows, easy-to-prepare meals, and entertainment.
• Arrange childcare or pet care if needed - you won't be able to lift heavy objects for several weeks.

Recovery Supplies Checklist

Gather these items before your surgery so everything is ready when you return home:

Essential Items

• Compression garment - your surgeon will provide this, but ensure you know how to put it on and take it off
• Ice packs or frozen gel packs - for managing swelling and discomfort (never apply directly to skin)
• Loose, comfortable clothing - button-up shirts, zip-up hoodies, elastic waist trousers
• Extra towels - for covering bedding and furniture to protect from drainage
• Antibacterial soap - for gentle cleansing around incision sites
• Large water bottle - staying hydrated is crucial for recovery
• Stool softener or laxative - pain medication can cause constipation

Comfort Items

• Reclining chair or wedge pillow - sleeping slightly elevated can reduce swelling
• Long phone charger cable - to use your phone comfortably while resting
• Easy-to-prepare meals - soups, smoothies, pre-made meals that require minimal effort
• Entertainment - books, magazines, streaming services queued up
• Lip balm and moisturiser - anaesthesia can leave you feeling dry

Optional but Helpful

• Arnica tablets or cream - may help reduce bruising (though scientific evidence is limited)
• Bromelain supplements - pineapple enzyme that some patients find helpful for swelling
• Body wipes - for times when showering feels too difficult
• Small step stool - helpful if you're having trouble with mobility

Mental Preparation

Understanding what to expect emotionally is just as important as physical preparation:

• You will be swollen and bruised immediately after surgery. This is completely normal and temporary.
• The first 3 days are often called "swell hell" - expect significant swelling and discomfort.
• You may see fluid drainage from incision sites in the first few days. This is normal.
• Results take 3-6 months to fully appear as swelling resolves and skin tightens.
• It's common to feel tired, emotional, or frustrated in early recovery. These feelings pass.
• Taking regular photos helps track your progress when day-to-day changes seem imperceptible.