Recovery Overview
Recovery from liposuction is shaped by three main factors: the volume of fat removed, the number of areas treated, and your individual healing biology. A single small area (chin, arms) recovers faster than circumferential treatment (Lipo 360). The guides below cover each phase in detail.
| Phase | Timeframe | What to Expect | Key Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Acute | Days 1–3 | Peak swelling, bruising, drainage | Garment 24/7, rest, hydration |
| Early | Days 4–14 | Swelling reducing, tightness | Light walking, garment continues |
| Mid | Weeks 3–6 | Firmness/fibrosis, shape emerging | Gentle massage, light cardio |
| Late | Months 2–6 | Fibrosis resolving, final contour | Full activity, skin retraction |
Recovery Guides
Select the topic most relevant to your recovery stage:
Recovery Timeline
Day-by-day and week-by-week breakdown — pain levels, milestones, and when to expect your result.
Read guide →
Compression Garments
Which garments to buy, how long to wear them, Stage 1 vs Stage 2, and why compression shapes your result.
Read guide →
Swelling & Bruising
When swelling peaks, what reduces it faster, normal vs concerning signs, and when to call your surgeon.
Read guide →
Fibrosis After Lipo
What fibrosis is, why it happens, prevention with compression and massage, and when it resolves.
Read guide →
Lipo 360 Recovery
Extended recovery for circumferential treatment — sleeping positions, garment logistics, and timeline.
Read guide →When to Contact Your Surgeon
Most recovery symptoms are normal, but contact your surgeon immediately if you experience:
- Fever above 38.5°C (101.3°F) — possible infection
- Rapidly expanding redness or warmth around incision sites
- Sudden large swelling on one side — possible seroma or haematoma
- Shortness of breath or chest pain — seek emergency care
- Increasing pain after day 3–4 rather than improving
- Foul-smelling drainage from incisions