Before and After Lipo

Before Liposuction

The most important thing to do before lipo surgery is to spend as much time as possible researching about the procedure and finding the best and most qualified cosmetic surgeon in Tucson. Note that not all cosmetic surgeons have the skills and experience required to perform a successful lipo procedure. In your search for a surgeon, try to confirm whether the practitioner is board certified and has adequate hands-on training. The surgeon must also have the necessary training in handling surgical emergencies and willing to discuss any concerns or questions that you may have.

Note that not all cosmetic surgeons use the different lipo techniques. This will greatly influence their recommendations. Don’t rely on a surgeon recommending a technique which they don’t have expertise or equipment for. You can expect a fair recommendation at a clinic where surgeon/s work with different types of lipo. It is also quite likely that you’ll get a recommendation that best suits your expectations and physical prerequisites.

With regard to preparation guidelines for lipo, they vary from surgeon to surgeon although there are basic rules to follow before the surgery. You need to notify your surgeon about your medical condition and any medications/supplements that you are taking. If you smoke, it’s most likely that you will be advised to quit at least six weeks prior to the procedure. You will also be instructed to refrain from taking any blood-thinning medication two weeks prior to surgery in order to minimize the risk of bleeding. On the day of the surgery, wear comfortable clothing and arrange for someone to drive you home.

After Liposuction

After the lipo surgery, you will be required to rest for a few hours, depending on the type of anesthesia used. The surgeon or medical staff will give specific instructions and guidelines. It is imperative that you strictly follow all of them to prevent any post-operative complications and to ensure an easy and expedient recovery. Lipo recovery time can last between two days and two weeks.

A compression dressing may be worn depending on the location of the treatment site. The pressure dressing or garment also helps to reduce swelling and promote skin contraction for more favorable results. It is usually worn 24/7 for a few days except when bathing. There may be some bruising but this should disappear within 2 to 3 days. If you feel any ache or pain, it should be easily relieved with over the counter analgesics.

Majority of liposuction patients in Tucson report that they were able to resume regular activities 24 hours after the surgery, and eventually return to work within the first week of recovery. During this period, the lipo surgeon will have you come back to take off the dressing and to check the healing process. Just make sure the incision sites are completely protected from direct sunlight as you don’t want to have dark scars.

Tips to Follow after Liposuction

Have someone with you at home especially on the first night after your lipo surgery. It would be best if you can have someone assisting you during the first 3 days after the surgery.
During the first couple of days after the surgery, try to keep yourself occupied by engaging in entertaining activities such as watching movies, reading a book, or surfing the web. These activities can help divert your attention from any pain or discomfort. Moreover, they will make your recovery more enjoyable.
Regular periods of rest and a gradual return to normal activities will help ensure that the treated area is properly healing.

Gentle massage over the treated area can help increase blood-flow, which also helps with the healing process.

Buy at least three compression dressings or garments so you have something to wear while the others are being washed and cleansed.
Always have your cosmetic surgeon's phone number at hand so you can readily make a call in case of an emergency or if you wish to ask a question.
Have a written schedule of the exact time when you need to take your medications.

When you feel strong enough, begin moving around to minimize the risk of blood clots and to speed up the healing process.

Make sure that all essential post-surgery care items are prepared. These include ice packets, bandages, clean towels, comfortable clothes and special garments.
Avoid exposure to extreme heat or cold.

Clean the incision site regularly and keep it dry in order to prevent infection.

Ask your cosmetic surgeon if you need a special diet (i.e. low sodium) and if there are food items that are recommended during the first few days after your lipo surgery.
Refrain from engaging in any kind of strenuous physical activity until you get clearance from your surgeon to do so.
Regularly visit your surgeon for post-operative consultations. Regular checkup will help your surgeon monitor the healing process and detect signs of complications or other potential problems.