The first week after Endolift is when good aftercare makes the most difference to your comfort, and it can help the tissues settle well. This guide sets out what is generally advised, day by day, and why. Your own clinic's instructions should always come first, because they know exactly what was done and where. Use this as a companion to that advice, not a replacement for it.
Before you go home
A little preparation makes the first evening easier.
- Arrange to go home without having to rush, and if possible have someone with you.
- Have extra pillows ready so you can sleep with your head raised.
- Choose clothes that are easy to take on and off without pulling over a treated face or neck.
- Make sure you have the clinic's contact details and know who to call if you are worried.
- Check what pain relief you have been advised to take, and ask before using anything that may increase bruising.
Days 1 to 3: protect and rest
Swelling, bruising, redness and tenderness are usually most noticeable in the first 3 days. Numbness in the area is common.
Compression garment or strap
For the neck and body areas, a compression garment or strap is usually worn for 3 to 4 days. It supports the tissues, reduces swelling and makes the area more comfortable. Wear it as directed, including at night if advised. Remove it only for the times your clinic has said are fine, such as washing.
Sleeping
For facial treatment, sleep with your head raised on 2 or 3 pillows. Sleeping on your back rather than your side helps avoid uneven swelling.
Washing and the entry points
The entry points are tiny but are still small wounds. Keep them clean and dry as instructed, wash gently and pat dry rather than rubbing. Do not pick at any small scabs.
Work and activity
Most people return to work the next day or within 48 hours, especially if their work is not physical. Gentle walking is fine. Avoid lifting, strenuous exercise and anything that makes you hot and flushed.
Days 4 to 7: settling down
Swelling usually starts to ease and bruises begin to fade. If you have been wearing a garment, you will usually stop around day 4 as advised. Firm areas or small lumps where fat was treated are common, and numbness may still be present. Both usually settle over 1 to 2 weeks or longer.
This is often the point where people feel well and are tempted to return to their full routine. A gradual approach is wiser. Follow your clinic's advice on when to restart exercise, and avoid saunas, steam rooms and very hot baths for as long as they advise.
What to do and what to avoid
| Generally helpful | Generally best avoided |
|---|---|
| Wearing your garment as directed | Removing it early because it is uncomfortable |
| Sleeping with your head raised | Sleeping face down or on the treated side |
| Gentle washing and patting dry | Scrubs, exfoliants or strong actives on the area |
| Short, gentle walks | Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting |
| High factor sun protection once advised | Sunbathing or sunbeds |
| Drinking water and eating normally | Smoking, which can slow healing |
| Contacting the clinic with any worry | Massaging firm areas unless told to |
If you would like guidance on creams and products, our article on skincare after Endolift covers what to use and when. Ask your clinic before applying make up over the entry points. The same applies to other treatments in the area, such as facials or injectables, which are usually best left until the area has settled and you have checked with the doctor who treated you.
Aftercare for body areas
If you have had the stomach, upper arms, inner thighs, knees or flanks treated, the same principles apply, with a few practical differences. The compression garment matters even more, because body areas move more and swelling can collect lower down. Loose clothing is easier over a garment. Tenderness in body areas can last a little longer than in the face, and you may notice it when bending, sitting or reaching. Plan for less activity than usual during the first few days, and avoid anything that rubs directly on the entry points. You can read more about body treatments on our body page.
Signs to report promptly
Normal side effects improve gradually. Contact your clinic straight away if you notice any of these:
- Pain that is getting worse after the first 2 or 3 days instead of better.
- Redness that spreads, feels hot or comes with a fever.
- Discharge or pus from an entry point.
- Blistering, a raw area, or a white or grey patch on the skin.
- A change in your smile, such as the lower lip not moving evenly.
- Swelling that is increasing rapidly or feels very tight.
If you have any difficulty breathing or swallowing, or feel very unwell, seek urgent medical care. For a fuller explanation, see which side effects are normal and which are not.
Dr Seth's view "Most aftercare is common sense: keep the garment on, keep your head up at night, keep things clean and do not rush back to the gym. What I ask of every patient is to send me a photo if anything worries them. It is far better to check early than to wait."
Next step
If you are considering Endolift and want to understand what your own recovery would involve, send 3 photos (front, left and right, in natural light) for Dr Seth's free assessment. You can also read our recovery and aftercare page. Send your photos.
Questions people also ask
How long do I wear the compression garment after Endolift?
For neck and body areas a compression garment or strap is usually worn for 3 to 4 days. It supports the tissues, helps with swelling and improves comfort. Your clinic will tell you whether to wear it at night and when it can be removed for washing.
When can I exercise after Endolift?
Gentle walking is usually fine from the start. Strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and anything that makes you very hot are generally avoided for the first week or for as long as your clinic advises. Restart gradually, and stop if the area becomes more swollen or painful.
Can I wear make up after Endolift?
Ask your clinic first. The entry points are tiny wounds and are usually kept clean and free of products until they have sealed. Once you are told it is fine, use clean brushes or sponges and remove make up gently without rubbing the treated area.
This article is general information, not personal medical advice. Results vary between individuals and are not guaranteed. Endolift® and LASEmaR® are registered trademarks of Eufoton® S.r.l.