If you are planning to go through a liposuction cosmetic surgery, you must be wondering how much pain you will go through and how long it will last. This article delves into post-liposuction nerve pain and explores techniques that can help you to effectively manage this pain and discomfort to ensure smooth healing.
Post-Surgery Nerve Pain
Nerve pain can be a potential complication following liposuction surgery. During your liposuction treatment, nerves may sustain damage due to small incisions, tissue manipulation, and the use of cannulas for fat removal. This tends to result in post-operative nerve pain that can vary in duration from weeks to months depending on the specifics of your surgery.
Recognizing the symptoms of nerve pain is important for effective management. Patients may experience persistent or intermittent tingling sensations, hypersensitivity to touch or pressure in the treated area, and temporary numbness accompanied by pain. It is important to be aware of these symptoms and seek appropriate treatment to address nerve pain after liposuction.
Treating Nerve Pain After Liposuction
Baton Rouge plastic surgeon Dr. Ruston Sanchez may treat post-liposuction nerve pain in a number of ways:
- Medication – medication can play a role in managing the pain. Over-the-counter pain relievers may be effective for mild to moderate pain. Prescription medications like gabapentin or pregabalin that target neuropathic pain may also be prescribed by your doctor. Certain topical treatments may also work, such as applying lidocaine patches or creams to numb the affected area or using capsaicin creams derived from chili peppers to desensitize the nerves and reduce pain.
- Physical therapy – this is another approach to consider when looking for ways to treat nerve pain after liposuction. Working with a physical therapist, you can learn therapeutic exercises and stretches that promote nerve healing and improve mobility. Techniques like ultrasound therapy or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can also be employed to provide pain relief and enhance nerve function.
In some cases, nerve blocks may be recommended by your surgeon or a pain specialist. These involve injections of anesthetics or steroids directly into the affected nerves, providing temporary relief. Following the recovery guidance provided by your plastic surgeon may also help smooth up the healing process. Focus on avoiding strenuous activities, get more rest, and follow proper wound care practices as instructed by your plastic surgeon. These help prevent infections and promote faster healing, indirectly reducing nerve pain.
It Takes Time for Full Nerve Recovery
Patience is your ally during recovery from liposuction plastic surgery. Your nerves need adequate time to mend and regain their usual function. Rushing the process, though tempting, could inadvertently impede progress and prolong the discomfort. Embrace the healing period and trust that your body knows best how to restore equilibrium. By allowing nature to take its course and heeding your surgeon’s guidance, you pave the way for a smoother recovery and bid adieu to nerve pain in due course.
Stay in Touch With Your Surgeon
It is crucial that you are in touch with your plastic surgeon throughout the liposuction recovery process. Let the surgeon know if you notice something outside the normal, or are worried about the progress of your recovery. Your surgeon has worked with countless patients before and is uniquely placed to answer your questions and recommend the best way forward to ensure optimal nerve healing and recovery.
Conclusion
While you heal from liposuction plastic surgery, keep in mind that each individual’s recovery journey is unique. The duration and management of nerve pain may vary. By practicing self-care, seeking medical advice when needed, and maintaining a positive outlook, you can navigate the recovery process with greater ease and increase the chances of a successful outcome.