Liposuction is a common plastic surgery procedure in which unwanted fat is removed from the body. This operation is ideal for individuals who have stubborn fat in certain areas of the body that may not respond quickly to diet or exercise changes. Common areas that are treated include thighs, abdomen, buttocks, and love handles. Men or women can benefit from the procedure.
While a certified plastic surgeon regularly performs liposuction, there is still a need for proper preparation. Doing so will not only ensure that you are an appropriate candidate for the operation, but it will help with a better recovery as well. Let’s take a look at some of the ways you can prepare for liposuction to ensure that it is as successful as possible.
Preparing for Liposuction
While the preparation for liposuction isn’t complicated, it is important. Here are the few key steps you should take before your procedure:
- Receive proper lab tests and thorough medical evaluation. Not only is this step a requirement, but it also rules out any significant medical concerns that will impact recovery.
- Your doctor will indicate which medications you may need to start or stop taking.
- You will be asked to stop taking anti-inflammatory medications or blood thinners, as this will increase bleeding after surgery.
Take care to evaluate your goals and what you would like to achieve by the surgery. Make sure that you ask your doctor questions about expectations, techniques used during the procedure, and any concerns that you have regarding the procedure itself and the recovery time. One of the best ways you can prepare for liposuction is by making sure that you’ve selected the best plastic surgeon for the job.
What to Expect During Recovery
Following liposuction, patients should expect to wear a compression garment. Not only does this help the body contour to its new shape, but it also helps with pain and swelling. In some cases, drains may be temporarily placed to help keep swelling to a minimum.
Additionally, your doctor will provide information for how you should care for your incision site and any medications you may want to take to keep pain and swelling in check. You’ll be given a date to return for follow-up care.
During the recovery time, you’ll be asked to avoid strenuous physical activity. You should avoid repetitive movements and avoid unnecessary strain. You should expect to have someone to help care for you during the recovery period.
Your doctor will inform you as to when you can slowly start to become more physical. Be mindful of your body during this time. Doing too much too soon could greatly influence the recovery time and could impact your final results.
Expectation of Results
While liposuction is commonly successful, there is no guarantee. Results will vary patient-to-patient, and in some instances, additional procedures may be required to reach optimal results.
While your body may change a bit as you age, the results that are achieved are considered somewhat permanent.
Discuss with your doctor any questions you may have regarding the final results. Keep in mind; you will not see the outcome until all of the swellings has gone down. This can take several months. Wearing the compression garment and going to all of your follow-up appointments can ensure that your recovery is on track and completed as quickly as possible.
Overview
At Funt Aesthetics in Roslyn Heights, NY, we understand that knowledge is everything when it comes to preparing for your next procedure. Our knowledgeable staff is on standby to answer your questions and schedule your initial consultation. Contact us today to learn more about your options.
