Even though liposuction is a surgical procedure, it is a minimally invasive procedure and you will usually be an outpatient. You may experience some initial discomfort and stiffness, but this will gradually disappear. Puffiness, tenderness and bruising (if any) of the treated area typically disappears in 1 to 2 weeks. Most patients tolerate the discomfort without the need for pain medication. However, if you feel discomfort for a few days this is usually well managed by simple pain medications.