If you’re feeling self-conscious about your figure and wish your body looked as it did before, liposuction may be the answer. Not to be confused with a tummy tuck, liposuction is the cosmetic procedure that breaks up and sucks fat from the body. It’s a surgery that can be performed in any of the common problem areas, such as the abdomen, thighs, neck, chin, arms, calves, back or buttocks.
Remember: Liposuction is not the answer to losing hundreds of pounds. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, this surgery is best for someone who is looking to lose excess stubborn weight that will not subside with physical activity and a wholesome, healthy diet. Specifically, the perfect candidate:
- Is within 30 percent of his or her ideal weight who has firm and elastic skin as well as good muscle tone.
- Doesn’t have a life-threatening illness or another medical condition that can impact the healing process.
- Doesn’t smoke, or someone who is willing to drop the habit.
- Has specific goals that involve body contouring, not someone who wants to lose half of his or her body weight.
Keep these guidelines in mind as you begin to do your research about the surgery.
If you sound like the right candidate for the procedure, read on to learn how to prepare for liposuction:
Undergo a medical evaluation
Before a surgeon will agree to perform the surgery, you must undergo a medical evaluation. This ensures that you’re in the proper state of health to go through with the procedure. Without the medical evaluation, the surgeon has the authority to deny your request for liposuction. If you’re worried about failing a medical evaluation, start making healthier lifestyle decisions to improve your well-being.
Stop smoking
As stated earlier, changing your habits is one way to ensure you are in shape to get liposuction. One of the common tendencies you must quit is smoking, which is something any doctor would ask of you no matter the procedure. As this habit can have a major impact on your overall health and well-being, it’s smart to quit altogether. If you can’t stop smoking permanently, at least plan to take a break two weeks before the procedure and two weeks after. Because smoking prevents wounds from receiving enough oxygen, it could slow the healing process after liposuction.
Avoid medications that cause bleeding
HealthGuidance reported that it’s important for your blood to be able to clot easily during the procedure. Therefore, it’s critical that you stop taking any medications that could thin or increase blood, such as aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs or herbal supplements. Again, this is crucial to consider a few weeks before the surgery and after.
Stay hydrated
Because of the wound drainage, it’s important to remember to stay hydrated after the procedure to streamline the healing process. Preparing in advance can get you in the habit of drinking more water during the day.
Stay hydrated before and after surgery.Get your rest
While you will likely go under general anesthesia for liposuction, it’s smart to get to the procedure well rested. HealthGuidance recommended arriving for the surgery in the healthiest condition possible, so avoid staying up late or putting in too many hours at work so you don’t get pushed to your breaking point.
Don’t shave
Based on the troubled area you’re targeting, it’s important to avoid shaving the body part that you plan to take care of with liposuction. Shaving within 24 hours of the procedure can cause your hairs to grow inward which can lead to irritation or other health issues in the future.
Achieve lifestyle changes based on provider recommendations
After your consultation, your surgeon may recommend various lifestyle adjustments to prepare for the surgery, such as following a more wholesome diet. This suggestion can help you develop healthier eating habits over time, which can ultimately assist in maintaining the results of your liposuction.
If you’re ready to make a change to better health and wellness, schedule your liposuction consultation at Maryland Plastic Surgery today. One of our trusted surgeons will be ready to answer your questions and concerns about the procedure.
