Exparel Injection - Pain Management in Fort Lauderdale, FL
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The South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, located in Fort Lauderdale, has served over 10,000 clients. Known for delivering the highest level of service, quality, and the latest techniques in cosmetic care.
Over 500+ 5 star reviews
Exparel Injection Overview
Exparel injections: A smoother, more comfortable recovery in Fort Lauderdale
The first few days after surgery are often the most challenging—your body is healing, and discomfort can slow down your recovery and impact your overall experience. That’s why we proudly offer EXPAREL® (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension), a long-lasting, non-opioid pain management solution designed to help you feel more comfortable and in control after surgery.
Exparel is a one-time injection administered during your procedure that works by slowly releasing medication over the course of 72 hours—the most crucial window of recovery. By targeting pain right at the source, it significantly reduces the need for narcotics and allows you to start feeling like yourself again, sooner.
Whether you’re undergoing a tummy tuck, breast enhancement, facelift, or mommy makeover, Exparel can be an essential part of your surgical journey—minimizing discomfort, supporting early mobility & helping you focus on healing and results instead of pain.
Long-lasting pain relief, customized for your procedure
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, we believe recovery should feel empowering—not overwhelming. That’s why we offer Exparel injections as an optional add-on to many of our most popular procedures. From tummy tucks and breast augmentations to facelifts and mommy makeovers, Exparel provides targeted, long-lasting relief so you can rest, move, and heal with more ease.
Administered directly into the surgical site while you’re under anesthesia, Exparel works by gradually releasing a local anesthetic over 72 hours—the most intense period of post-op pain.
Unlike traditional pain medications that wear off quickly or require frequent dosing, Exparel is a single-dose solution that supports a smoother recovery while reducing the need for opioids or narcotics.
The cost of adding Exparel to your procedure is $750, which includes the medication and administration by your surgical team. This optional upgrade can be discussed during your consultation to determine if it’s the right fit for your procedure and comfort goals.
We’re here to make sure your recovery is not only effective—but as comfortable as possible.
How exparel works in the body
Exparel isn’t your average pain medication. It’s a long-acting local anesthetic made from bupivacaine, a numbing agent that’s been used safely for decades—but with a modern upgrade. What makes Exparel different is its advanced delivery system that allows the medication to release slowly over time—so you stay comfortable for longer without needing constant dosing.
Here’s how it works:
Right at the source
During surgery, your surgeon injects Exparel directly into the surgical site (not your bloodstream). This allows the medication to work exactly where pain signals begin—targeting the nerves in the tissue that were affected during the procedure.
Time-released comfort
Thanks to its unique liposomal formulation, Exparel wraps the bupivacaine in protective fat-like particles that dissolve slowly in the body. This creates a steady release of numbing medication over the next 2 to 3 days—right when post-op discomfort is typically at its peak.
No opioids needed (or fewer of them)
Because Exparel delivers continuous pain relief for up to 72 hours, many patients avoid or significantly reduce the need for narcotic medications, which can cause grogginess, constipation, nausea, and even addiction risk. You’re able to feel more like yourself while still staying on top of discomfort.
Supports faster, more comfortable healing
By keeping pain levels manageable without relying on heavy medications, Exparel helps you move more comfortably, sleep better, and get back to your normal routine faster—all of which are key to healing well and loving your results.
Where exparel makes the biggest difference
While Exparel can enhance the recovery process for many surgeries, it offers the most noticeable impact in procedures that involve deeper tissue manipulation or larger surgical areas. Below are just a few of the procedures where Exparel has helped our patients feel more comfortable and confident from day one of recovery:
Tummy tuck (abdominoplasty)
Exparel is especially beneficial after a tummy tuck, where discomfort is often most intense due to muscle tightening. By numbing the abdominal region for up to 72 hours, Exparel allows you to move, sit, and stand more easily in those crucial first days—helping you feel in control of your recovery.
Breast augmentation or breast lift
Following breast surgery, pressure and soreness in the chest can be a challenge. Exparel helps dull that discomfort so you can sleep, breathe, and go about your day with less reliance on narcotic pain medications. It supports a more natural healing rhythm—without the brain fog of opioids.
Facelift (rhytidectomy)
While not known for intense pain, facelift recovery can involve significant facial tightness and swelling. Exparel targets the deeper tissues that are lifted during surgery, helping to reduce that tight, tender sensation and allowing patients to feel more at ease as they heal.
Liposuction (especially high-volume or 360)
For liposuction areas like the flanks, abdomen, or thighs, Exparel offers localized relief that makes compression garment wear more tolerable and helps reduce the aches and soreness that can follow larger-volume fat removal.
Mommy makeover
Combining multiple surgeries in one session—such as tummy tuck, breast lift, and liposuction—can intensify discomfort. Exparel is a game-changer here, allowing patients to manage pain more effectively across multiple areas of the body, while minimizing the need for multiple medications.
Financing options as low as $200 / month
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Exparel injection consultation process
01 Complete our form
Fill out our virtual consult form online, so that we can get some more information about you and what you specific needs. Be sure to include any concerns and questions that you have for our staff or surgeons. There is also an option to attach photos for the surgeon to review when evaluating your case.
02 Receive a proposal
In most cases, you’ll receive a proposal within 24 hours of submitting a request via email from your assigned patient care consultant. This will show a breakdown of pricing, what’s included, and next steps to move forward with the surgery. You’ll also be able to contact your consultant moving forward with any questions or concerns about your surgery.
03 Submit photos for review
In order to move forward with your surgery, the surgeon must evaluate your body and your specific goals. Patients can either submit photos including multiple angles (front, back, and both profiles) along with comments about their goals and concerns, or can schedule a video call at their convenience to virtually meet with the surgeon. We offer virtual consultations with Dr. Robert Cucin, Dr. John Pinnella, and Dr. Rohan Policherla. We also offer in-person consultations with a $500 deposit that goes towards the overall cost of your surgery.
04 Get approved
After your consultation, whether by submitting photos, video call, or in-person, the surgeon will create a surgical plan and approve you as a candidate for surgery. The surgeon might also suggest another procedure. Your patient care consultant will reach out to you to confirm the surgeon’s approval and answer any remaining questions you may have.
05 Leave deposit to hold price
Once you are ready to move forward, you can leave a $500 deposit using a credit card, cash, or one of our trusted financing partners. This deposit goes towards the overall cost of your surgery. Deposits are non-refundable, but remain as a center credit for a period of one year.
06 Schedule surgery
After you leave your deposit, you are ready to schedule your surgery. Our scheduling supervisor will reach out to you and choose dates for your pre-operative and surgical appointments that work for you. If you’re not ready to schedule right away, just let us know when to reach out and we will be happy to follow up at a later time.
Request an exparel injection consultation in Fort Lauderdale
Get a free exparel injection consultation. Enter your information below and one of our coordinators will reach out to begin your consultation process.
The exparel injection process
Consultation
Before any procedure at the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, you’ll meet with one of our expert surgeons to discuss your goals, medical history, and overall surgical plan. During this personalized consultation, your surgeon will assess whether Exparel is the right choice for your recovery. This includes reviewing your current medications, past procedures, allergies, and overall health to ensure the treatment is safe and effective for you.
As part of your surgical prep, our team will take pre-op photos, order any necessary bloodwork, and give you clear instructions about what to avoid leading up to surgery—including medications, certain foods, or alcohol. You’ll also receive guidelines for maintaining proper hygiene and following pre-surgery protocols, so you feel confident and ready on the day of your procedure.
During surgery
Exparel is administered during your surgical procedure, injected precisely near the incision sites while you’re under anesthesia. Your surgeon will tailor the dosage based on your body, procedure type, and pain management needs. Because Exparel works locally and begins acting immediately, most patients wake up from surgery with noticeably reduced pain or discomfort.
Recovery & results
Exparel is designed to support your recovery—not change it. That means your healing timeline will still follow the normal path for your procedure (e.g., tummy tuck, breast lift, or facial surgery), but your comfort level can be significantly improved. By helping manage pain for up to 72 hours after surgery, Exparel reduces the need for narcotics and lets you move more freely during those first crucial days of healing.
You’ll still receive our standard recovery instructions tailored to your specific procedure, including how to care for your incisions, when to resume light movement, and what to avoid. And as always, our patient care team will be just a call away to answer questions or guide you through next steps.
Follow-Up Appointments
After your procedure, we’ll see you for a series of post-op visits to ensure your recovery is smooth and your results are on track. These typically happen 1 day, 1 week, and 1 month after surgery—though your surgeon may recommend additional visits if needed.
Reviews & ratings in Fort Lauderdale
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The entire team is amazing here, from the office managers to the nurses, nurse practitioners to the doctors! Everyone treated me with such kindness, respect and knowledge, I was very impressed!
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Based on my personal experience, I can confidently recommend Dr. John Pinella and the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery to anyone seeking a skilled surgeon and a practice that prioritizes patient care, safety, and outstanding results.
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The office girls are a complete pleasure and the nurses go above and beyond in my opinion. I will be coming back for more services here and I recommend South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery to everyone who is considering cosmetic surgery.
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Hands down, this is one of the best experiences you will ever have. What truly sets this practice apart is the incredible staff. They are caring, compassionate, understanding, patient, and genuinely treat you like family. Every team member goes above and beyond to make you feel respected, supported, and cared for. Their knowledge, professionalism, and kindness are unmatched.
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I’m only 30 days post-op, but I’m already loving my results. I also appreciate how the office checks in on me and responds promptly whenever I have questions or concerns. Choosing this center was one of the best decisions I’ve made, and I couldn’t be happier with my experience so far.
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Coming from Oklahoma this was a very big decision for me. Everyone here has been so helpful during this whole process for me. I never felt rushed or put off they have been so quick at responding to any messages I have sent them during post op as well.
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This was my first cosmetic surgery & everyone at the office made me feel super comfortable. My recovery was super easy & painless as well which was my biggest concern.
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Real patients, real results.
Our Fort Lauderdale exparel injection plastic surgeons
M.D.
Dr. Rohan Policherla
Rohan Policherla, MD is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery.
M.D.
Dr. Georgina Nichols
Georgina Nichols, MD is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery.
M.D.
Dr. John Pinnella
John Pinnella, MD is a plastic and reconstructive surgeon who specializes in aesthetic surgery.
The Florida Center Difference
South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery has been around for over 20 years. We have two Florida Health Department Certified Office Based Surgery locations in Fort Lauderdale and Miami and a number of board certified plastic surgeons on our staff who specialize in a variety of procedures. We have been recognized by Boca Magazine’s Top Doctors, Fort Lauderdale Magazine’s Top Docs, RealSelf and have over 500 5-Star reviews.
Awards and recognition
Frequently asked exparel injection questions
What is Exparel used for in cosmetic surgery?
Exparel is a non-opioid pain management injection used during cosmetic surgery to reduce discomfort after procedures like tummy tucks, breast augmentations, and facelifts.
How does Exparel work?
Exparel works by numbing the area around the surgical site. It’s injected near your incisions during surgery and slowly releases medication to control pain for up to 72 hours post-op.
Is Exparel safe?
Yes, Exparel is FDA-approved and widely used in both medical and cosmetic procedures. Your surgeon will evaluate your medical history to ensure it’s a safe option for you.
Does Exparel eliminate the need for narcotics after surgery?
In many cases, Exparel significantly reduces or even eliminates the need for narcotics during the first few days after surgery—when pain is typically most intense.
What procedures can Exparel be used with?
Exparel is commonly used with tummy tucks, breast augmentation, breast lifts, facelifts, and other body contouring surgeries that involve larger incisions.
Will I feel anything when Exparel is injected?
No, Exparel is administered while you’re under anesthesia, so you won’t feel the injection itself. You’ll simply wake up with less pain and improved comfort.
How long does the Exparel shot last?
Exparel provides targeted pain relief for up to 72 hours, giving your body time to begin healing before the medication fully wears off.
Is Exparel covered by insurance?
Since cosmetic surgery is elective, Exparel is not covered by insurance. However, it’s available as an add-on to your procedure for a flat fee of $750.
Can Exparel be combined with all types of surgery?
While Exparel is versatile, your surgeon will determine if it’s appropriate for your specific procedure and anatomy during your consultation.
What are the side effects of Exparel?
Most patients tolerate Exparel very well. Minor side effects may include temporary numbness, tingling, or swelling at the injection site, which typically resolves on its own.
Is Exparel better than traditional pain medication?
Exparel is often preferred because it offers long-lasting relief without the side effects of opioids, such as drowsiness, nausea, or dependency.
Can Exparel speed up recovery?
While it doesn’t shorten your recovery timeline, Exparel can make your recovery feel easier by reducing discomfort and making it easier to move in those early days.
How is Exparel different from a nerve block?
Unlike a standard nerve block that wears off quickly, Exparel is a slow-release medication designed to manage pain over several days without frequent reapplication.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for Exparel?
Your candidacy will be discussed during your consultation based on your procedure, health history, and recovery goals. Most patients undergoing surgery with moderate to large incisions are good candidates.
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Our exparel injection specialist in Fort Lauderdale
At the South Florida Center for Cosmetic Surgery, our Exparel Injection is performed by a team of experienced plastic surgeons, including Dr. Rohan Policherla who is known for his meticulous technique and commitment to delivering natural, balanced results.
Our team performs a variety of surgeries at our modern Fort Lauderdale facility, serving patients locally from Miami, Boca Raton, and Palm Beach, as well as clients who travel from across the U.S. and internationally seeking high-quality aesthetic care in South Florida.
Indication
EXPAREL® (bupivacaine liposome injectable suspension) is indicated to produce postsurgical local analgesia via infiltration in patients aged 6 years and older and regional analgesia in adults via an interscalene brachial plexus nerve block, sciatic nerve block in the popliteal fossa, and an adductor canal block. Safety and efficacy have not been established in other nerve blocks.
Important safety information
EXPAREL should not be used in obstetrical paracervical block anesthesia
In studies in adults where EXPAREL was injected into a wound, the most common side effects were nausea, constipation, and vomiting.
In studies in adults where EXPAREL was injected near a nerve, the most common side effects were nausea, fever, headache, and constipation.
In the study where EXPAREL was given to children, the most common side effects were nausea, vomiting, constipation, low blood pressure, low number of red blood cells, muscle twitching, blurred vision, itching, and rapid heartbeat.
EXPAREL can cause a temporary loss of feeling and/or loss of muscle movement. How much and how long the loss of feeling and/or muscle movement depends on where and how much of EXPAREL was injected and may last for up to 5 days.
EXPAREL is not recommended to be used in patients younger than 6 years old for injection into the wound, for patients younger than 18 years old for injection near a nerve, and/or in pregnant women.
Tell your health care provider if you or your child has liver disease, since this may affect how the active ingredient (bupivacaine) in EXPAREL is eliminated from the body.
EXPAREL should not be injected into the spine, joints, or veins.
The active ingredient in EXPAREL can affect the nervous system and the cardiovascular system; may cause an allergic reaction; may cause damage if injected into the joints; and can cause a rare blood disorder.