What’s
normal.
Understand common changes during healing and when to ask for help.
Healing takes time.
Timing varies with your procedure and body. For new or worsening symptoms, Email 
.
Soreness, bruising, swelling and red-tinged drainage can occur. Drainage is usually heaviest early and decreases over the next few days.
Deep soreness often improves over 7–14 days. Swelling may shift downward and your shape can look uneven while healing.
Bruising often settles within about three weeks. Swelling continues to ease and activity increases gradually with clearance.
Swelling, firmness and sensation changes may continue to improve. Some areas, especially the legs, take longer to settle.
Numbness & itching
Temporary numbness and mild itching can occur. Sensation may take weeks or months to improve. Tell your team about persistent, painful or worsening changes.
Firmness & unevenness
Small firm areas and temporary lumpiness can occur. Do not try to break them up with aggressive massage. Ask Heart to assess new or enlarging swelling.
Changes on the scale
Temporary water retention can increase your weight after surgery. Early swelling does not show your final result. Give your body time and attend follow-ups.
These guides cover awake liposuction and fat transfer. Surgical skin removal and other procedures may need different care. Your Heart Team’s personalized instructions take priority.
Questions about recovery?
Text Dr. Spivak at 310-862-0123 or email ryan@bodybyheart.com. Contact Heart to arrange your one-week virtual follow-up.
When to get help.
Contact Heart promptly for fever over 101.4°F, spreading redness or warmth, pus, increasing severe pain, heavy bleeding, drainage beyond seven days, or a garment causing pain or circulation changes. Report persistent vomiting or dizziness promptly.
Call 911 for trouble breathing, chest pain, loss of consciousness or another emergency. Do not wait for a text reply.