How Can I Reduce Swelling After Ankle Fat Removal

Ankle fat removal involves liposuction of the ankle area. It is a relatively non-invasive procedure that surgeons perform under a local anesthetic. However, it is still surgery, so you can expect some swelling afterward. Although swelling is normal after liposuction, you may want to reduce it to improve your comfort. Here are some top tips and some information to help you.

Why Does Swelling Occur After Liposuction Surgery?

Surgery involves trauma to the tissues, and inflammation is the body’s natural response. Inflammation results in swelling. Therefore, it is normal to have swelling after any form of surgery. Liposuction is no exception to the rule. During liposuction, the surgeon also makes tunnels under the skin with the cannula. Afterward, fluid collects in those tunnels. Eventually, the swelling will subside.

Also Read: Is Ankle Liposuction Safe And Effective?

How Long Does Swelling Usually Last?

Although swelling is normal after liposuction, it is usually relatively short-lived. Swelling is usually worst around three days after the procedure. After that point, it will typically start to go down. Most of the swelling will usually have subsided within a few weeks. In some cases, there may still be some swelling and fluid retention for several months. Nevertheless, once six months have passed, you should be able to see the outcome of the surgery.

The Importance of the Compression Garment

After you have liposuction, your surgeon will offer you a compression garment. It is extremely important to wear it exactly as prescribed by your surgeon. A compression garment is a tightly-fitting garment that exerts even pressure over the skin. In the case of ankle surgery, it will take the shape of compression stockings. Wearing this garment is vital to achieve the optimal outcome from your procedure. Even pressure on the treated area helps to improve blood flow and reduce swelling. It helps to promote effective and speedy healing.

Immediately after surgery, you must wear your compression garment 24 hours a day. You may remove it to shower, but then you must put it right back on afterward. Your surgeon will let you know when you can reduce the amount of time you wear your garment for.

If you fail to wear the compression garment as prescribed, you may slow the healing process. You may experience more swelling, and the outcome may not be as good as you hoped.

Avoiding Overheating

Overheating can increase inflammation and, thus, swelling after surgery. To reduce swelling, it’s important to keep your body temperature down. You can guard against getting too hot by avoiding sunbathing and saunas. You should also wear breathable, loose-fitting clothing to try to stay cool.

Applying Ice Packs

The application of cold compresses can help to reduce swelling. The cold constricts the blood vessels. That, in turn, decreases the flow of blood to the treated area, reducing inflammation and swelling. Although applying ice packs can help reduce post-liposuction swelling, you should consult your surgeon first. They will be able to let you know how to use them properly to avoid overdoing it.

Eating Healthily

Eating healthy is always important, particularly after any kind of surgery. Eating well after liposuction helps to promote a good and speedy recovery. However, if you’re experiencing post-lipo swelling, changing your diet can help. Many people find it helpful to reduce their sodium intake to reduce swelling. Salty foods cause water retention, especially in the feet and ankles. After ankle liposuction, reducing your salt intake will help to eliminate water retention as an additional cause of swelling. It’s also a good idea to add some foods to your diet that promote good healing. Foods that are rich in iron reduce inflammation. Therefore, consuming more of them in the post-surgery period will minimize swelling.

Staying Active

Staying mobile after liposuction is essential to improve blood circulation and, thus, reduce swelling. You should avoid any strenuous exercise for a few weeks after surgery. Walking, however, is highly beneficial.

Massage May Help

A special type of massage called MLD or Manual Lymphatic Drainage can help to reduce swelling after liposuction. This massage technique involves skin-stretching gentle movements. It transports lymph fluid from the swollen areas to areas without swelling to promote effective healing.

Avoiding Alcohol

It’s important to avoid drinking alcohol after any kind of surgery. It is especially important after ankle liposuction. Alcohol dehydrates the body. It results in water retention that causes swelling. Your surgeon will advise you to quit alcohol consumption before and after lipo for this reason.

Getting Advice From a Skilled Surgeon

It’s essential to choose a skilled surgeon to carry out your liposuction procedure. A specialist in the field can ensure your outcome is everything you hoped for. Contact Dr. Su at ArtLipo today about ankle fat removal. He will give you the information you need about how to reduce swelling after your procedure.