Dr. Yuan Cosmetic Surgery
Phone or Text: 610-850-4470 Fax: 484-752-4078
Recovery from Liposuction and BBL
Please review the following instructions carefully to support a smooth and effective recovery after your liposuction and/or Brazilian Butt Lift (BBL) procedure.
1. Sleeping Position
• Avoid lying or sitting directly on your buttocks for at least 2 weeks, and ideally up to 4 weeks.
• Stomach sleeping is the most recommended position during early recovery.
• Side sleeping is also acceptable—place a pillow between your knees and another behind your back to prevent rolling. Alternate sides regularly.
• If you need to sleep on your back, place a firm pillow under your lower back and another under your thighs to reduce or avoid pressure on your buttocks.
2. Compression Garment Use
• Wear your compression garment (faja) continuously for 4–6 weeks, removing only for showers.
• Compression helps reduce swelling, supports skin retraction, and improves body contour.
• Make sure the garment fits snugly but is not overly tight or restricting.
3. Use of Abdominal Board and Lumbar Board
• You may begin using an abdominal board and lumbar board several days after surgery, once initial swelling decreases.
• These help flatten the abdomen, reduce fluid retention, and enhance garment compression effectiveness.
• Boards should be worn inside the compression garment and adjusted for comfort and fit.
4. Diet and Hydration
• Eat a high-protein, low-sodium diet to support healing and reduce swelling.
• Drink plenty of water—aim for at least 8–10 glasses per day.
• Include fruits, vegetables, and healthy fats to support tissue repair.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking, as they delay healing and reduce fat graft survival.
5. Activity and Ambulation
• Begin light walking indoors on the same day or the day after surgery to improve circulation and reduce the risk of blood clots.
• Walk short distances several times a day, with assistance if needed.
6. Return to Work
• Most patients return to light, non-strenuous work within 7–10 days, depending on comfort and job demands.
• Use a BBL pillow when sitting and take breaks to stand or walk.
7. Exercise
• Avoid strenuous physical activity and cardio for at least 4 weeks.
• Light activity and stretching may be resumed gradually.
• Avoid glute-targeted workouts for 6–8 weeks to protect the fat grafts.
8. Lymphatic Drainage Massage
• Lymphatic drainage massage is highly recommended to reduce swelling, prevent fluid build-up, and improve your overall results.
• Start 3–5 days after surgery, and continue 2–3 times per week for the first few weeks.
• Massage must be performed by a licensed therapist who specializes in lymphatic drainage for post-surgical recovery.
9. Incision Care
• Please refer to the separate Incision Care Instructions page for detailed care of your incision sites.
10. Bowel Care
• Pain medications may cause constipation.
• Use stool softeners, increase your fiber and water intake, and walk regularly to promote bowel movements.
11. Warning Signs – When to Call the Office
• Excessive or worsening swelling
• Fever over 100.4°F (38°C)
• Redness, warmth, or pus-like drainage from incision sites
• Difficulty breathing or chest pain — seek emergency care immediately
