Do’s and Don’ts for Liposuction
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Liposuction is the leading option to diminish the appearance of stubborn bumps and lumps from localized fat and help sculpt areas to appear more toned and trim. Tumescent liposuction using local anesthesia as developed and performed by dermatologic surgeons is extremely safe. However, as with any invasive procedure, liposuction has risks. Some simple steps can help prevent potential complications before and after a liposuction procedure. Researching the procedure and doctor, having realistic expectations, using local anesthesia and following post-operative directions are just a few guidelines that will help to ensure the patient receives the best results.
ASDS offers some additional tips to ensure a positive result:
Do’s:
- Do your research: There is a lot to consider when undergoing liposuction. Choosing a dermatologic surgeon at a reputable location is very important and could help to decrease complications.
- Do maintain a healthy weight before surgery: Liposuction is a procedure for shaping the body by removing localized fat in areas such as the abdomen, thighs, arms or neck. For best results, candidates should be close to normal-weight with firm, elastic skin. This is not a weight loss procedure.
- Do understand your options: There are several options to liposuction surgery. Tumescent liposuction, the safest procedure, uses local anesthesia, injecting the fat with a large amount of anesthetic liquid causing it to become firm, making the removal of fat easy and painless while leaving patients less bruised. Ultrasonic and laser-assisted liposuction technique liquefies fat upon removal, decreasing recovery time. These are sometimes useful adjuncts. It’s important that you speak with your doctor to choose the right procedure for you.
- Do follow post-operative directions carefully: Doctors make suggestions after surgery to further avoid complications. Moderate physical activity, such as walking, the day after surgery may reduce the risk of clotting. Also, in some cases, compression garments should be worn around the treated area to reduce swelling.
Don’ts:
- Don’t expect to look “skinny” the day after surgery: You will always look better immediately after a procedure but will not realize the final result for several months.
- Don’t hesitate to ask questions: Before a consultation with a dermatologic surgeon a patient should be prepared with a list of questions for their doctor. Questions should help the patient understand the liposuction process, what to expect after the procedure and learn more about the doctor’s training and experience.
- Don’t continue over-the-counter supplements: Products such as aspirin, vitamin E and some herbal products slow blood clotting. Additionally, some anti-inflammatory medications can increase the chances of bleeding during surgery. Prior to surgery, the doctor will discuss any medications and supplements you are taking and which ones should be discontinued.
- Don’t assume all areas are treatable: Most, but not all, body parts are amenable to treatment. The most popular areas include the neck, chest, arms, waist, hips, abdomen, buttocks, thighs, knees and ankles. Your dermatologic surgeon will tell you if you are a good candidate for the surgery.