Women with lipedema live with unbearable pain and invisible symptoms. We need to raise awareness so that those affected can receive proper care in Singapore.
January 23, 2025
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Liposuction, since its inception, has been going from strength to strength in terms of being in-demand? A sought-after procedure when it comes to fat removal and body contouring. There are plenty of reasons for this, which include the following:
- Liposuction can be used to remove excess localised fat on practically every part of the body. It can correct disproportionate body shape, which is impossible with non-surgical means.
- Fat is surgically removed instantaneously. The results achieved are more visible and dramatic compared to non-surgical options.
Over the years, the advancement made, in particular to the liposuction technique, has made this procedure even more efficient and safe. An example is the MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique.
Developed by Dr Ivan Puah, Medical Director at Amaris B. Clinic, this proprietary approach enables him to achieve thorough fat removal in a multi-dimensional manner, tailored body contouring, and skin tightening - the three main objectives for a truly successful procedure. Dr Puah has close to TWO decades of experience in the field of liposuction and body contouring, and this experience and knowledge for the impetus behind the invention of the MDC-Sculpt®️ Lipo technique.
What To Expect After A Liposuction Procedure
Scarring & Pain Management
As with most or any invasive procedure, TWO main things can be expected. The first is incision scarring; while this is to be expected, the doctor will keep it to the very minimum. These incisions, wherever possible, will be made in inconspicuous areas so that they are less noticeable. The patient will be given aftercare advice, including how to ensure that the incisions will heal properly.
The second thing is pain. Pain relief medication will be given to the patient. While pain, soreness and discomfort are expected, they should not be overwhelming.
7 Recovery Tips After Liposuction
The recovery process is perhaps the most important part of any procedure. The patient has to do their due diligence and follow the advice given to help facilitate a smooth and successful recovery. Here are some valuable recovery tips.
Compression Garment
The wearing of a compression garment aids the recovery process significantly. While it is understandable that this can be inconvenient, it is important nonetheless that a patient adheres to the doctor's advice. A compression garment can help to compress the swelling and assist with skin retraction. Human beings, by default, can be impatient, but being so in such a situation will cause issues and impede the recovery process.
Avoid Smoking And Alcohol
It is recommended that a patient stop smoking and consuming alcohol around FOUR to SIX weeks before their liposuction procedure. This can help to reduce any potential complications that may arise. It's also advisable to do the same post-liposuction as nicotine and alcohol will hinder recovery.
Maintain A Healthy Diet
Liposuction removes excess fat permanently, but the remaining fat cells can continue to expand. So, minding one's diet post-liposuction goes a long way in ensuring a smooth recovery and lasting results. Consume food that will aid in recovery, and drink sufficient water to keep your body hydrated.
Get Rest
Rest, in general, is crucial because the body needs to heal, which is especially important in a liposuction recovery process. Take your time trying to get on with your daily activities. The doctor will advise the patient when one's daily routine can be resumed safely.
Go For A Walk
Go for walks to stretch those muscles and encourage blood flow. Depending on their state, a patient may also engage in light exercises such as stretching but heed the doctor's advice.
Monitor your recovery
Throughout the recovery process, ensure that all advice given is heeded. Monitor the process, and alert the doctor if there is an oddity that doesn't go away. While results can be seen immediately, it will take several months for full results to be realised - usually after the tissue swelling has subsided. Success for liposuction, and any surgical procedure in general, is also dependent on the patient doing their due diligence. This starts with ensuring that the doctor of choice is qualified and experienced. In Singapore, the procedure is strictly regulated, and only doctors approved by the Ministry of Health (MOH) can perform liposuction.
Activities to Avoid during Lipo Recovery Period
While it's best to stay home the next few days following your liposuction surgery and rest as much as possible, we encourage you to walk around the house to avoid the risk of blood clots and promote blood circulation. However, please refrain from performing heavy household chores or carrying heavy objects.
While you can enjoy long walks outdoors and return to the office after a few days, please avoid strenuous activities such as weight lifting or HIIT exercises. Water activities such as swimming, soaking in the tub or saunas are also to be avoided.
During your follow-up review with your liposuction doctor, your doctor will advise accordingly when you can do what based on your recovery progress.
