When it comes to body contouring surgeries, there is no procedure quite as popular as liposuction. This unique procedure is designed to remove unwanted fat from specific parts of the body, so it is often used by both men and women to achieve their desired physique. For many, it is a second chance to have the body they were meant to have. Part of a successful liposuction procedure is a smooth recovery. If you’re thinking about cashing in on a second chance for the body you want, follow these tips to recover quickly and smoothly from your liposuction.
About the Liposuction Procedure
Liposuction was designed to correct problems with stubborn pockets of fat that diet and exercise can’t seem to remove. The procedure works best on candidates who are within 30 percent of their ideal weight, are nonsmokers, have good overall health, and have both skin elasticity and muscle tone that are good. Aside from traditional liposuction,there are three main liposuction techniques: super-wet, tumescent, and ultrasound assisted.
To begin all three techniques, your plastic surgeon will make tiny, well-hidden incisions at the treatment area. During the super-wet liposuction procedure, a medicinal solution of anesthetic, epinephrine, and saline is injected into the treatment area. The tumescent liposuction technique involves a larger amount of this same fluid injection. Finally, ultrasound liposuction is performed using ultrasound energy to melt away the fatty deposits before removing them. A cannula will then be inserted through each incision and pushed back and forth in order to loosen the fatty deposits, which are then suctioned away through the cannula.
The duration of your liposuction procedure will depend on the number of areas being treated and the volume of fat that is being removed. Some patients request only one area to be treated, but many are looking for two or more trouble spots to be corrected with liposuction. Discuss your treatment options with your plastic surgeon during a liposuction consultation.
About the Recovery Period After Liposuction
Following a liposuction procedure, you should expect a short period of recovery that will likely include swelling, redness, and bruising around the treatment areas. Your body will gradually adapt to the changes made during your procedure, although you may experience some pain and discomfort. Your surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help you manage these symptoms as you heal.
Most patients’ recovery from liposuction begin with two days of downtime, then one to two weeks with restrictions on their activities and plenty of rest. You might be able to return to work after about a week, but you will most likely be unable to engage in most strenuous exercises and vigorous activities for a little while longer. The terms and duration of your liposuction recovery will depend on what areas (and how many) will be treated, so consult with your plastic surgeon to get a better idea what your recovery will look like.
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
Planning a successful and smooth recovery from your liposuction procedure begins in the days and weeks leading up to your surgery. In order to have a smooth recovery, you must first make sure that you stay healthy enough for surgery. Your body’s health will carry you through your recovery process, minimize your risks for complications, and boost the results you see from your surgery. Take the time to eat a healthy diet, exercise regularly, and maintain your weight, while avoiding anyone with obvious symptoms of illness and washing your hands frequently. Avoid losing large amounts of weight before your procedure and, if you do plan to lose a few pounds, clear this with your surgeon first.
You may also need to stop taking certain medications, supplements, and herbal remedies in the days leading up to your surgery. Pay close attention to the instructions your plastic surgeon gives you at your consultation and follow them carefully. By keeping your body in good condition for surgery, you’re increasing your chances for a smooth liposuction recovery.
How to Plan Your Recovery Right
You should also take steps to get ready for your recovery period before you head to the clinic for your liposuction. Establish a special place in your home that can become your Recovery Area. Typically, patients prefer to set up their space on a couch or in their own bed. Choose a spot wherever you’ll be the most comfortable and start thinking about what you’ll want to have close by during your first 48 hours of critical recovery time. You won’t be able to get up and down much, so create a space that is comfortable, filled with pillows and blankets, and loose-fitting clothing.
Use a small basket or bucket to stock medical supplies, such as gauze, pain medication, vitamins, cold compresses, and other must-haves your surgeon may recommend. Discuss your after-care instructions with your surgeon in case you will be expected to change your dressings or care for the incision areas.A smooth recovery relies on you staying well-nourished too, so don’t forget to stash some healthy snacks and waters nearby. Consider these supplies as fuel for your body as it heals.
You’ll also want to make sure you’re not bored during recovery, as positive emotions can actually help your body to heal more quickly. Keep your mind active with books, magazines, crossword puzzles, or DVDs of your favorite shows. Take advantage of the downtime and give yourself the chance to relax and enjoy your mandated rest. It will all be worth it when you see your fantastic liposuction results.
Plan for Success with the Right Plastic Surgeon
Schedule your consultation for your own liposuction procedure with Dr. Robert Kessler, a board certified plastic surgeon with fellowship training in facial aesthetics, and find out if you’re a good candidate for a lower body lift procedure. He completed his medical degree with honors from Tufts University in Boston as well as a distinguished General Surgical Residency with North Short/NYU in New York. Prior to that, he completed a Plastic Surgery residency with the US Air Force and the University of Texas.
Today, Dr. Kessler operates in California, has worked as a surgical consultant and surgical assistant on ABC’s Extreme Makeover, and has lectured nationally and internationally on topics including facial rejuvenation, plastic surgery, and body contouring. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Kessler, contact his office, located at 2121 E Pacific Coast Hwy #200, in Newport Beach, CA, by calling 949.644.6544.
