What should I expect during my laser- or ultrasound-assisted liposuction recovery?

The most common potential complications of laser- or ultrasound-assisted liposuction include:

• Bruising
• Infection
• Minimal bleeding
• Numbness
• Skin burns
• Swelling

Managing your discomfort: You'll probably be sore and a little swollen for a few days following laser- or ultrasound-assisted liposuction. Your doctor will provide painkillers to keep you comfortable.

Your doctor may advise you to wear a special compression garment to speed healing. Everyone's recovery is slightly different, but most people are able to return to work within a few days.

In the long-term

As you recover you'll notice that your skin may begin to tighten as the new layers of skin form. This firming may continue for up to six months after your procedure.

These techniques remove fat cells that are not recreated. If you should gain weight, it's likely that fatty deposits will not expand in the areas where the procedure was performed.