Bruising can be a part of the recovery process after cosmetic surgery procedures such as Vaser Liposuction, though experiences may vary. Coupled with swelling, bruising is often one of the side effects patients are concerned with the most.

We answer the most common questions we get asked about bruising after Vaser Liposuction.

Why does post-surgical bruising occur?

Some bruising around the areas of the body treated with Vaser Liposuction should be expected as it is the body’s natural response to injury. During the fat removal cosmetic procedure, tissues are manipulated and some of the surrounding blood vessels can be injured by the liposuction cannula. This can cause a small leakage of blood into the tissues from the blood vessels and result in an obvious bruise.

Great care is taken to minimise bleeding during the liposuction procedure and post-operative swelling and bruising by doctors. However, even with great skill, precision and the latest technology, some amount of bruising should be anticipated.

How much bruising will I experience?

Bruising and swelling can occur as side effects for some individuals undergoing Vaser Liposuction, as part of the body contouring procedure’s recovery process.

How much bruising you can expect after the surgical procedure will vary from patient to patient. It will depend on the extent of fat removal, how many incision sites are required, the location of the targeted fat cells and the likelihood of bruising. For example, people who are fair-skinned or have loose skin around the treatment area are more likely to experience significantly more bruising during the recovery time.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B1x6hGrjjnR/

If you have opted for traditional liposuction over Vaser Liposuction you may notice more bruising after the procedure. This is because Vaser liposuction is a much gentler treatment with small incision sites and more precise body sculpting results. The swelling and pain experienced are also typically greater in patients who undergo traditional liposuction.

How long will bruising last?

The duration of bruising post-liposuction can vary, and as it fades, you may begin to see the results of the procedure. Again, this will depend on the amount of body fat removed, the incisions required and how prone you are to bruising.

As the tissues heal, you’ll notice the bruises change in colour just as they would those that were incurred from any other injury. Your bruise may initially appear red before deepening to a dark blue, black or purple. Over time, these will fade to a yellowish-green tone before during a light brown and fading completely.

Even with significant bruising, you’ll see some fading in the first week and it may fully resolve after two weeks of recovery time. But don’t worry, bruising and general soreness shouldn’t keep you from resuming your normal activities shortly after your Vaser Liposuction surgery. These side effects should also improve with lymphatic drainage massages and the use of compression garments.

Is pain, redness and heat in the surgical area normal?

While bruising is a normal part of post-operative recovery, if you experience side effects such as increased pain, redness, fever or heat in the surgical area, it’s important to consult your cosmetic practitioner or doctor as this may indicate you have an infection. While chances of incurring a surgical site infection are rare with Vaser Liposuction, they can be serious if left untreated.

How can I reduce post-liposuction bruising?

There are several things you can do to reduce your bruising, especially if you have a high likelihood of experiencing this post-operative side effect.

  • Follow the post-operative instructions
    For optimal recovery and reduced bruising, follow the post-operative instructions provided by your cosmetic surgery team. These are likely to include compression garments, lymphatic drainage massages, healthy diet and a restriction of some of your normal activities.
  • Apply ice packs
    Using ice packs on the treatment area during the first few days of your recovery can help minimise bruising and bleeding by constricting the blood vessels.
  • Take supplements before and after
    Pre and post-surgical supplementation of bromelain and arnica may help to minimise the bruising. Be sure to discuss this with your doctor to avoid unnecessary complications or side effects.
  • Discuss your medications
    Before your Vaser Liposuction surgery, discuss the use of any medications including over-the-counter and painkillers as these can increase the risk of bruising.
  • Remain hydrated
    Keeping hydrated by drinking plenty of water will help speed up recovery and flush out toxins. If you are dehydrated, consider a quality electrolyte supplement.
  • Eat plenty of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory foods
    Antioxidants and the nutrients in anti-inflammatory foods can help to improve the healing process, reducing swelling and bruising.

Related posts