The First 24–48 Hours After Surgery

The initial days after chin liposuction are foundational to the recovery timeline. Patients typically go home the same day with written instructions and support from the surgical team.

You can expect:

• Swelling beneath the chin and along the upper neck, which is a normal inflammatory response. This swelling helps initiate tissue healing but may make the area appear fuller before it improves.
• Bruising that may spread down the neck or to the jawline, often starting deep purple and gradually turning yellow or green as it resolves.
• A sense of tightness or pressure under the chin, caused by the tissue adjusting to the removal of fat and the use of compression garments.
• Mild numbness or tingling, often due to nerve response and inflammation in the treatment zone. This usually resolves in the coming weeks.

Dr Mark Kohout recommends:

• Wearing a chin strap or compression garment continuously, including while sleeping, to manage swelling and support skin retraction.
• Elevating the head using pillows when lying down, which assists in fluid drainage and reduces pressure on the neck.
• Avoiding solid foods that require strong chewing, opting for softer options in the first 24 hours to reduce jaw strain.
• Taking any prescribed medications on time, which may include antibiotics and mild pain relief, to prevent infection and keep discomfort under control.

The first 48 hours are often spent resting at home, ideally with reduced movement and ongoing monitoring from a responsible adult if needed.

Week One: Managing Early Recovery

As you move through the first full week after surgery, the intensity of post-operative symptoms generally begins to subside. The area may still look and feel swollen, but this is expected.

Typical experiences during this stage:

• Bruising continues to fade, and while still visible, becomes less intense and often more localised.
• Tightness in the lower face may remain, especially when turning the head or speaking for extended periods.
• Mild asymmetry may be present, where one side heals faster than the other. This is common and typically evens out with time.

During this time, Dr Mark Kohout’s aftercare advice typically includes:

• Continuing to wear the compression garment for most of the day, unless showering or performing light skin care as directed.
• Avoiding bending over or lifting heavy items, as this can increase pressure and lead to additional swelling.
• Staying well-hydrated and maintaining a low-sodium diet, which helps limit fluid retention in the surgical area.
• Gently walking around the home to maintain circulation, but avoiding vigorous exercise or any high-impact movement.

By the end of week one, many patients begin to feel more mobile, and light activity can often resume depending on individual comfort and healing progress. Dr Kohout’s Sydney clinic provides direct access to his care team during this time for reassurance and monitoring.

Week Two to Four: Progressive Improvements

This period is marked by steady and visible recovery progress. While the full results are not yet final, patients typically report feeling more in control of their healing.

What to expect:

• Swelling continues to subside, particularly in the mornings and after removing the compression garment.
• The shape of the neck and jawline becomes more defined, with subtle changes occurring weekly.
• The treated area may still feel firm or slightly stiff, which is part of the normal tissue remodelling phase.
• Numbness may linger, but often reduces gradually as nerve endings slowly regenerate.

Dr Mark Kohout may guide you to:

• Begin reducing compression garment use, potentially shifting to overnight wear or light daytime use depending on your progress.
• Ease back into your normal daily activities, such as returning to work or light fitness (e.g. walking), while still avoiding heavy lifting or vigorous motion.
• Use a gentle skincare routine, as directed by the clinic, to maintain skin quality without irritating healing areas.
• Attend follow-up consultations at his Sydney practice, where healing is assessed, and photos may be taken to track progress.

During this phase, patients often feel comfortable engaging socially and attending events, though minor swelling may persist in the evenings or after prolonged activity.

Beyond One Month: Long-Term Healing and Results

While major recovery milestones are typically reached within the first month, full healing continues for several weeks and can extend up to three months or more depending on individual factors.

Expect:

• Gradual skin contraction and adjustment, as the skin remodels to the new contour beneath it.
• Improved tissue softness and flexibility, with a return to normal sensation in the treated area.
• More visible definition of the jawline and neck, especially in natural lighting and during movement.
• Fading of any residual bruising or pigmentation, which may be more visible in fair or sensitive skin types.

Dr Mark Kohout’s approach to patient care includes:

• Monitoring final outcomes over several appointments, making sure the patient is satisfied and healing is on track.
• Providing long-term care advice, including how to maintain results with healthy skin habits, sun protection, and weight management.
• Addressing any individual concerns, such as prolonged numbness or uneven texture, and offering options based on clinical assessment.

By this stage, patients can typically resume full physical activity and enjoy the final, stabilised outcome of their chin liposuction procedure.