How Do I Prepare for Liposuction Surgery?

Something that I discuss with my patients very commonly is the importance of preparation before plastic surgery. It’s easy to fast forward in your mind and get to the part where you’re already enjoying the final results of your procedure, but the truth is that the path to successful plastic surgery begins long before the surgery itself takes place. Mental and physical preparation are critical. Which is why I wanted to discuss liposuction surgery today, and what patients can do to best prepare themselves and promote the best and most satisfying experience possible.

Mentally Preparing for Liposuction

Am I ready for this? Is now the right time? Have all of my questions or concerns about my procedure been answered sufficiently so I am now comfortable going into this surgery? The answer to all these questions needs to be a resounding yes before a liposuction procedure can take place. And while some pre-surgery jitters are perfectly natural, it’s critical for patients to be in good mental health and maintain a positive outlook in the lead-up to their surgery.

Physically Preparing for Liposuction

It’s important to tell your plastic surgeon about any medicines or supplements that you are taking, including common over-the-counter meds. If you smoke, vape, or use any other nicotine product, you will have to stop in the weeks before (and after) your surgery. I always instruct my patients to wait until they have reached their ideal weight before undergoing liposuction surgery, as the procedure will not provide significant weight loss results. It is also important to note that gaining weight after the procedure will most likely negatively affect the results.

Preparing for Liposuction Recovery

Lastly, it’s highly beneficial to make sure your home (or wherever you plan on recovering in the days following your procedure) is ready in-advance. Recovery after liposuction is not especially arduous, but it is critical to be restful and relaxed in those initial days following surgery. Some things to have on-hand include:

• Comfortable clothes (and compression garments to help reduce swelling)
• Simple foods with lower sodium that are easy to prepare
• Whatever help is needed for taking care of children or pets
• Whatever post-surgery medications are prescribed and recommended by your plastic surgeon
• Notes with all of your surgeon’s pre and post-op instructions

When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon like myself, liposuction is a very dependable way to shed unwanted, excess fat. And preparing properly will only help patients in the long-term. For more information on liposuction or to schedule your plastic surgery consultation today, please contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. Don’t forget that you can also connect with me on Facebook for additional plastic surgery tips, videos, news, and more.