Preparing for Liposuction
Knowing what to expect from a liposuction procedure can help to ease any anxieties one might be experiencing beforehand. It can also help one to prepare for what may come - ensuring someone is available to help where needed during recovery, booking the appropriate time away from work or school, making sure pain medications are readily available, transportation issues are resolved, etc.
Consultations
Anyone who is undergoing a liposuction surgery should have a consultation with their selected practitioner to discuss the expectations of the surgery and how to prepare themselves for the surgery and recovery times. The surgeon should provide a brochure or other type of literature that provides detailed directions on pre-surgery diet requirements, post-surgery care, average recovery times and much more.
Counter Indications
It is important for any patient to cease taking medications such as birth control, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs(i.e. Aspirin® or ibuprofen), certain herbs and vitamins (consult with the practicing surgeon for specific details at least one week prior to surgery), smoking and consuming alcohol. Birth control increases the risk of blood clots after a surgical procedure, so it is important for patients to use another method for at least one month. Certain medications, vitamins and herbs increase the blood flow and can cause major blood loss during and after the procedure. Similarly, alcohol thins the blood and hinders its ability to clot. Smokers find themselves especially susceptible to chest infections after anesthesia and can find themselves with circulatory problems.
Pre-Surgical Procedures
Most likely, the surgeon will recommend that the patient fast (does not eat or drink) for at least 8-12 hours prior to the surgery. This reduces the risks of vomiting during the operation, which can result in infections and other complications. It is very important to abide by this guideline to reduce the chances of any complications.
Recovery
It is important for anyone undergoing liposuction to ensure that they are able to be away from work or school for at least one week. Rest is one of the most vital factors in healing the body after it suffers a trauma like surgery, so ensuring that rest is available to the patient is extremely important to succeed. It is recommended that the patient have someone to help them for at least the first two days following the procedure as well.
Post Surgical
Many people choose to have any post-operation prescriptions filled prior to the surgery when it is possible. This allows them to go directly home after the procedure and begin the healing process, and it may reduce the possibility of experienced unnecessary pain.
Summary
The best person to advise a liposuction patient on how to prepare for the procedure is the surgeon who will be performing the operation. Detailed directions are usually included after a consultation and will reflect the individual procedure to be performed and the best ways to prepare for that procedure.
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