Liposuction is usually considered a minor procedure.  It is not, however, performed without risks or without pain.  The amount of pain that a person has with liposuction is determined by the kind of liposuction they have and more importantly the kind or anesthesia they have.  Some types of liposuction are performed under general anesthesia, meaning that the person having the liposuction is not awake and not conscious of the procedure going on.  Other types of liposuction, like tumescent liposuction, are only performed under local anesthesia.  The patient is awake while the procedure is performed and given a light anesthetic to make them a little drowsy and also medication into the areas where the liposuction is being performed.  Patients that have this type of liposuction usually do not require narcotic medications for pain control.

Pain and What to Expect

Patients who have liposuction under general anesthesia seem to experience a significant amount of pain after the procedure.  They usually require narcotic medications to control their pain.  Their time period of recovery takes longer and they generally have more complications.  It takes them longer to return to work and drive a car.  Patients who have liposuction with a local anesthetic only usually are able to return to work in two to three days.  They have less pain and usually only use an over the counter pain medication, like acetaminophen.  They describe the pain like a sun burn or generalized muscle aches. 

Consult With Professional Plastic Surgeons

Your expert surgeon will discuss with you the pain you will probably experience after the procedure.  He will also talk to you about methods of pain control to help alleviate any discomfort you will have after the procedure.