If you’re working towards a leaner, more sculpted physique, liposuction can be a highly effective complement to dieting and exercise. The procedure can smooth stubborn bulges of fat resistant to exercise and reshape virtually any area of the body, leaving behind sleeker, more toned contours. That said, the inevitable recovery period after liposuction can sometimes pose a concern for patients in Philadelphia who live an active lifestyle. Most people know that they will need to refrain from working out while their body heals, but men and women interested in liposuction often ask our board-certified plastic surgeon when they can expect to resume their exercise regimen after surgery. While some patience is required, many individuals are able to start light workouts as soon as two weeks after their procedure.
Keeping in mind that each patient heals at a unique rate, exercise can generally be resumed in stages based on Dr. David Bottger’s instructions and the nature of your liposuction. It’s typically true that the more areas are treated with liposuction — or the more fat is removed during surgery — the longer it will take to fully heal from the procedure. An average recovery timeline with regard to exercise proceeds as follows:
- Week 1: Getting plenty of rest should be your top priority, but going on light walks is encouraged once you feel strong enough.
- Week 2 – 3: You may be able to introduce low-impact, light workouts into your routine depending on Dr. Bottger’s instruction, such as indoor cycling and elliptical training.
- Week 4 – 6: Patients can slowly increase the intensity of their workouts, including resistance training, depending on how they feel. Dr. Bottger can give you more personalized advice when he sees you during follow-up appointments.
Dr. Bottger stresses the importance of listening to your body and gradually reintroducing your workouts based on the pace of your recovery process. Once patients are completely healed from surgery and working out at their usual intensity, many report that the results of liposuction can be very motivating in the effort to maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.