How long should I take off work after Liposuction of the abdomen and flanks?

Good question!  I would say at least 2-3 days but within a week generally.  There are many factors that determines this.  One factor is how much liposuction is being performed, depending on your body habitus.  Also everybody's pain tolerance is different, some patients bounce back very quick, other take more time.  Liposuction is one of the more painful procedures we perform, due to the nature of the procedure itself.  Best of luck and hope this information helps!

Recovery from any procedure is a function of the procedure performed and the patient on whom it is being performed. It stands to reason that bigger and more involved/invasive procedures will then take longer to recover from. Additionally, patients with a higher tolerance for pain/discomfort will also be better suited to successfully navigate the post operative waters.With regards to liposuction specifically, my patients can expect 7-10 days (perhaps shorter for less involved procedures or more stoic patients) for the initial recovery period. I generally recommend that patients anticipate the need for some time away from work coinciding with this initial period.This period will be followed by an extended period of several weeks of healing during which pain, bruising and swelling will subside. This can be as long as 3-6 months before a final result will be achieved.Patients should avoid exercise for a month and avoid heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for 6 weeks. Additionally, they should anticipate the need for compression garments for the better part of 1-2 months.As always, discuss your concerns with a board certified plastic surgeon.