While it is important to know how to reduce bruising after your liposuction procedure to speed the healing process and reduce pain, it is important that you find a physician that will use specific techniques to minimize bruising during the procedure. This is especially common in tumescent liposuction.
Tumescent liposuction involves injecting a tumescent solution, epinephrine and sometimes Lidocaine anesthetic, as a 1:1 ration with fat removed. The presence of the epinephrine, which constricts small blood vessels, reduces the amount of bleeding and bruising. This allows for the removal of the fat with minimal amounts of blood, thus reducing post-op bruising.
It takes between 7 and 10 minutes for the tumescent solution to cause full vasoconstriction of the blood vessels. It is important to Dr. Hovsepian that you wait the full time before beginning the liposuction. If you do not wait, the amount of blood present will be higher and the result is more severe bruising. Some surgeons do not wait because the cost of the room will increase the longer the procedure takes.
After the surgery, it is up to you to reduce bruising further with the use of compression garments. The pressure when applied evenly and for around 48 hours will reduce the amount of swelling and bruising while increases the rate at which you recover.
Dr. Hovsepian will go over all your post-op instructions to create a smooth recovery. It is also important that you avoid alcohol before and after your surgery as alcohol will thin your blood, increase the amount of bruising and prolong your recovery. The same goes for tobacco use.
It is our goal, just as much as your goal that you have a quick and healthy recovery. Any questions and concerns you have will be answer by Dr. Hovsepian in your initial consultation and your meetings leading up to the surgery and your post-op appointments.