Week-by-Week Recovery Overview

Recovery doesn’t follow a strict timeline — instead, it evolves uniquely for each patient. However, understanding typical milestones helps manage expectations and plan appropriately.

Week 1: Rest and Early Healing

This is the foundational stage of recovery. Patients are encouraged to take time off work or social commitments to prioritise healing.

Key recommendations include:

• Keeping the head elevated, including during sleep, which helps minimise fluid retention and reduce swelling. Two or more pillows or a wedge pillow can assist with this.
• Applying cold compresses, particularly in the first two days, to help manage initial inflammation. These should be used cautiously and never placed directly against the skin.
• Wearing a compression garment, if prescribed by Dr Kohout. This helps control swelling, supports tissue retraction, and improves overall comfort during the initial phase.
• Limiting facial movement, such as excessive talking, chewing tough foods, or yawning widely. Soft foods are often preferred during the first few days.
• Avoiding alcohol, smoking, and intense physical activity, all of which can interfere with the healing process and increase the risk of complications.

It’s important for patients to pace themselves and avoid the urge to “bounce back” too quickly. Even when pain is minimal, the internal healing process is still underway.

Week 2–3: Visible Improvements Begin

By the second and third weeks, the initial swelling usually begins to subside, and patients may start to see early signs of facial contouring.

Typical experiences during this phase include:

• Significant reduction in facial puffiness, with the cheeks beginning to reveal their refined shape.
• Bruising fading to yellow or light brown, typically resolving completely by the end of week two or early week three.
• Return to light social or professional activities, such as remote work or non-strenuous tasks. Many patients feel comfortable appearing in public during this time, especially with makeup if permitted.
• Sutures, if used, may be removed during this phase depending on the technique employed. Dr Kohout’s team will provide clear guidance.
• Follow-up consultation with Dr Mark Kohout typically occurs at this stage to assess healing progress and address any emerging concerns.

Each review appointment provides an opportunity to refine aftercare recommendations based on the patient’s personal recovery rate.

Week 4 and Beyond: Returning to Normal Activities

The fourth week marks a turning point for most patients. Many return to full work schedules and reintroduce physical activities under guidance.

What to expect during this time:

• Resumption of moderate to vigorous physical exercise, pending approval from Dr Kohout. This includes gym workouts, running, and yoga.
• Makeup and skincare routines can usually be resumed, although gentle products and sun protection are recommended.
• Improved skin tone and texture in the treated area as lymphatic drainage and circulation stabilise.
• Fading of any residual numbness or firmness, though some patients may continue to feel slight tightness for a few more weeks.

Final results continue to evolve, and most patients report optimal contour visibility between 8 to 12 weeks post-op. Patience is key, as the internal healing process continues long after the surface appears restored.

Supporting a Steady Recovery

Dr Mark Kohout’s post-operative philosophy is grounded in proactive, tailored care. Every patient receives a comprehensive recovery plan, customised to reflect the individual’s health profile, lifestyle, and surgical goals.

To support a their recovery, patients are advised to:

• Follow all post-operative instructions precisely, including cleaning routines, garment use, and prescribed medications. This reduces the risk of infection or delayed healing.
• Stay well-hydrated, which helps reduce water retention and supports cellular repair.
• Consume a nutrient-dense diet, rich in protein, zinc, and vitamin C, all of which are essential for tissue regeneration.
• Avoid direct sun exposure, which can lead to hyperpigmentation or prolonged redness at incision sites.
• Check in with the surgical team if anything feels unusual — even seemingly minor concerns can be easily clarified through communication.

As a Specialist Plastic Surgeon with an established clinic in Sydney, Dr Mark Kohout offers patients attentive, ongoing care every step of the way.

Why Personalised Post-Operative Care Matters

No two patients are the same. That’s why Dr Mark Kohout tailors his approach to each case, taking into account not only the surgical specifics but also the patient’s age, lifestyle, recovery environment, and expectations.

Personalised care means:

• Continuity of care: Patients are seen by the same surgeon — Dr Kohout — throughout the process. There is no handover to junior staff or external clinics.
• Timely follow-ups: Ongoing assessments means any minor concerns are addressed early, and recovery stays on track.
• Access to local care: For Sydney residents, in-person support is conveniently available at Dr Kohout’s centrally located clinic.

This approach reflects a commitment to clinical excellence and supports optimal healing from both a physical and emotional perspective.

Individual Factors That Influence Healing

Several elements affect how each person’s body responds to cheek liposuction. Understanding these helps set realistic timelines and reduces the chance of disappointment.

Variables include:

• Age: Younger patients tend to heal faster and may experience quicker reduction in swelling, while older individuals may see more gradual improvements.
• Skin quality: Elastic skin tends to retract more efficiently after fat removal, leading to a flatter appearance.
• Health conditions: Chronic conditions such as diabetes or autoimmune disorders may extend recovery time.
• Lifestyle habits: Smoking, high-stress levels, and inconsistent sleep patterns can all hinder the healing process.
• Adherence to care instructions: Patients who closely follow their surgeon’s advice generally experience fewer complications and a more predictable recovery.

During consultation, Dr Mark Kohout evaluates all of these factors and discusses their potential impact on the surgical and post-surgical phases. This level of transparency helps patients feel informed and in control throughout their journey.

Common Concerns During Recovery

Patients undergoing any procedure often have questions and uncertainties. Anticipating and addressing these concerns is an important part of the recovery experience.

Some frequently raised topics include:

• “Is numbness normal after cheek liposuction?”
   Yes, temporary numbness is a known side effect due to disruption of small nerve endings. It usually resolves gradually without intervention.
• “How long will swelling last?”
   Swelling generally peaks within 48 hours and subsides significantly by week two. Residual puffiness may persist for several weeks, particularly in the lower face.
• “When can I go back to work?”
   Many patients return to desk-based or remote work within 5 to 10 days. Visibility of bruising and personal comfort levels often influence this decision.
• “When can I resume wearing makeup or skincare products?”
   Gentle skincare may be reintroduced around week two, and makeup can typically be worn by week three, depending on healing progress.

Patients under Dr Mark Kohout’s care in Sydney have ongoing access to experienced advice, meaning that any post-operative questions are addressed promptly and professionally.

FAQs Recovery After Cheek Liposuction