You eat right, exercise and have a pretty healthy lifestyle. Still, you have not ended up with the silhouette you have been hoping to achieve. You have decided to invest in liposuction to rid yourself of a few stubborn areas.
You should know what to expect as you prepare for your procedure.
Your Health
You may be asked to have a medical exam or lab work. Your doctor will ask about your family history and your medical history. Tell your doctor about any prescriptions you take, as well as any supplements or herbal treatments. You will be signing a release that states you are aware of the risks, benefits and any alternatives associated with your procedure.
Your Weight
You should be at a stable weight. You will be having fat cells removed from your problem areas, but the fat will come back if you gain weight. Additional fat may distribute elsewhere on your body to accommodate for the sculpted areas. Maintaining your weight will make your procedure permanent.
Medications
It may be suggested that you stop taking any anti-inflammatory medication prior to surgery. This includes over- the- counter products like aspirin and ibuprofen. These medications can thin the blood and prevent proper clotting. Doctors recommend being free from these medications for a minimum of two weeks. Women may need to stop taking some types of oral contraceptives.
Your Skin
The current condition of your skin can affect the outcome of your procedure. Skin that is healthy and firm will be better able to adapt to the contour changes as you heal from the procedure. If your skin is loose or not resilient, your final results could be less than desirable.
Arrange Transportation
If you are having a large area or several areas treated under general anesthesia, you may be having the procedure done in a hospital. Plan on staying overnight so your progress can be monitored. If your procedure is performed on a smaller area with local anesthesia, you may be able to go home the same day. Either way, be prepared to have someone drive you home and stay with you that first night.
Have Realistic Expectations
Talk to your doctor about your anticipated results. Liposuction will not remove dimples, cellulite, or improve stretch marks. Liposuction will not cause a dramatic weight loss.
Quit Smoking
Smoking can lead to surgical complications. Nicotine constricts blood vessels and reduces blood flow. Your healing time will improve if you are nicotine free. Healing faster will reduce your risk of infection.
Take Time Off
Ask your surgeon how much time you will need and clear that time off at work. You want to allow your body to have adequate time to heal.
Prepare for the Days After
Prepare yourself as much as possible for the first few days after surgery. Shop ahead for any items you may need.
- Have your prescription for pain medication filled
- Be sure you have proper fitting compression garments
- Clothes that are easy to get off and on
- Ice packs
- Prepared food
- Paper plates and plastic utensils
- Bottled water/Gatorade
- Books and movies
- Arrange your surroundings for accessibility
Preparation for your procedure will help the process goes smoothly. The best source of information is your doctor. Be sure to ask questions and address any concerns.
If you are considering liposuction in the Dayton Ohio area, or are interested in learning more about alternative therapies contact Dr. James Apesos M.D. F.A.C.S. at The Plastic Surgery Pavilion.