Liposuction naturally comes with the warning that there will be mild to moderate pain and discomfort during and following the procedure. Although symptoms should subside within a few days, sometimes it can take several weeks or months for the patient to feel completely healed. Bruises and swollen skin can cause both discomfort and pain, and often patients complain of numbness, sensitivity, and a throbbing sensation in the treated area. These can usually be managed with over-the-counter medications such as paracetamol (NOTE: Taking excessive dosages of painkillers such as Ibuprofen or Aspirin, which work as anticoagulants, may increase bleeding even some time after the procedure. Please consult your surgeon before taking these drugs). Patients who suffer from extreme pain that prevents them from getting back to desk-type jobs or that confines them to the bed or couch should immediately call their surgeon. Although the doctor will usually just prescribe stronger painkillers, extreme weakness and pain can indicate underlying complications and should be brought to attention as soon as possible.