Because liposuction is a surgical operation, you will experience some swelling, soreness, and discomfort during your recuperation. Most individuals experience post-op pain lasting four to five days, but it quickly goes away, and any lingering discomfort is readily controlled. Because liposuction is a surgical operation, you will experience some swelling, soreness, and discomfort during your recuperation. Most individuals experience post-op pain lasting four to five days, but it quickly goes away, and any lingering discomfort is readily controlled.