Liposuction of the neck is a great way to get rid of a double chin, redefine the jawline, and enhance facial contours. Laser-assisted neck liposuction is a minimally invasive in-office procedure with little downtime. However, there’s more to just undergoing the treatment. Proper post-operative care is crucial to ensure a smooth recovery. Most surgeons recommend manual lymphatic drainage after liposuction of the neck to support the healing process and enhance results. Before we delve into post-surgical neck massage techniques, let’s take a look at why it’s important.
Importance of Soft Tissue Manipulation during Neck Liposuction Recovery
Here are five reasons why post-liposuction tissue manipulation is important:
- Reduces swelling: Gentle kneading of the treated areas helps minimize swelling, which is particularly crucial in the early recovery phase when your face is still adapting to the changes.
- Improves blood circulation: Light tissue manipulation enhances blood flow in the treated areas, ensuring oxygen and nutrients reach the healing tissues more efficiently, speeding up the recovery process.
- Restores tissue flexibility: After wearing a compression wrap for two weeks, your skin and underlying tissues may feel tight. Post-operative lymphatic drainage helps restore their natural mobility.
- Relieves discomfort: Tightness and discomfort are common after the procedure, especially when you lift your chin. Tissue manipulation can ease these sensations, promoting overall comfort and well-being.
- Supports healing: Beyond physical relief, these therapeutic interventions play a key role in the healing process, helping you achieve optimal results from your neck and jawline sculpting.
After neck contouring, your surgeon will recommend wearing a compression garment. The duration for which you need to wear the garment depends on how fast you heal and your surgeon’s instruction. Post-op manual tissue mobilization begins when your compression wrap is removed.
Post-Lipo Therapeutic Neck Tissue Manipulation Techniques
While professional services are available, self-massage is a convenient and effective alternative. Here’s how to perform self-massage after neck liposuction:
- Gentle manual lymphatic drainage: This technique uses light, rhythmic technique hand movements, including stretching and gliding, to encourage fluid movement and reduce swelling. Use your fingertips to apply gentle, upward strokes along the sides of your neck. Apply slow motions starting near the collarbone and move toward the jawline. Avoid excessive pressure.
- Circular motion: Using your fingertips, make soft, circular motions along the treated area. This will improve blood circulation and prevent fluid buildup. Apply gentle, even pressure and repeat for a few minutes.
- Rolling: This technique involves lightly pinching the skin between your fingers and gently rolling it upward. This helps loosen tight tissues and restore mobility in the treated area. Do it for 2-3 minutes daily.
- Upward stroking: Place your hands on either side of your neck and apply light pressure. Use gentle upward strokes, slowly gliding upward toward your jawline. This method supports tissue healing and skin tightening. Repeat for a few minutes.
- Warm compress: Using a warm compress before the skin manipulation can relax the tissues, improve blood flow, and speed healing. Apply a warm (not hot) compress for a few minutes and then gently knead the skin.
While self-massage after cosmetic surgery can greatly enhance your recovery, proceed with it if only your surgeon approves. Each person’s recovery and considerations are different. Consulting your surgeon will ensure it aligns with your healing progress.
If your surgeon approves post-lipo massage, follow their guidelines on when to start and which techniques to use. Gentle manual lymphatic drainage is recommended to avoid irritating the sensitive treatment area. Maintain a consistent routine for the best results but discontinue this therapeutic intervention if you experience any pain and consult your surgeon.
If you’re considering laser liposuction for double chin and neck fat, choose an AAAASF-accredited liposuction center with experienced surgeons. Such facilities ensure high-quality end-to-end care – right from the initial consultation through the surgical procedure and recovery. Experts will also provide post-care tips to help you achieve the best results. With patience and proper care, you’ll enjoy a smoother, more comfortable recovery and confidently embrace your refreshed look.
Achieve a slimmer, more defined neckline!
