Preparing for cosmetic surgery may seem daunting at first, especially if you are feeling the common pre-op emotional mix of anxiety and excitement. Getting ready for your liposuction procedure at Houston Lipo Center is straight forward and doesn’t require too much. Our method of liposuction is minimally invasive and performed under local anesthesia, so while there’s not much you will need to do there are a few required to-do items leading up to your procedure. Doing these simple things will help to ensure that liposuction surgery goes safely and that recovery is as smooth as possible.
Consultation & Scheduling
When you meet with your liposuction surgeon at Houston Lipo Center you will discuss your goals and the surgeon will do an evaluation to determine whether you are a good candidate. If so, you and your surgeon will determine a liposuction treatment plan that will best help you reach your aesthetic goals. Your surgeon will discuss which areas can be treated and the realistic results you can expect from liposuction. If you are happy with the plan, you can move forward with scheduling your surgery.
We offer free liposuction consultations. Book yours now!
One Week Before Liposuction Surgery
Once your surgery is scheduled, there are a few preparation items to keep in mind that will start one week prior to your surgery.
First, you will need to stop taking any aspirin or aspirin-containing medications one week prior to (and one week after) your surgery. We will provide a medication sheet that you can use to cross reference and check your current medications. Second, you should stop taking any natural products, herbal medicines, and/or vitamins one week before your surgery – these can be resumed 24 hours post-op. If you are a smoker, you will need to refrain from smoking at least one week prior to (and one week after) your liposuction surgery since smoking decreases circulation and slows healing time. Finally, make sure you arrange for post-op transportation – you can have your spouse, a friend, or family member drive you. If that is not available to you, you can arrange for medical transport service.
One Day Before Liposuction Surgery
We will provide a prescription antibiotic that you should begin taking the day before surgery.
Avoid alcohol at least 24 hours prior to your surgery since alcohol can interfere with your blood’s ability to clot which may increase bleeding at your incisions and delay healing.
Lastly, try to get a good night of sleep – we know you may be feeling anxious/excited but do your best to get some rest.
The Day of Surgery
On the day of your liposuction surgery, you will need to shower and use the anti-bacterial scrub that will be provided to you before you come into the office. You should wear loose-fitting, dark clothes such as old sweatshirts and sweatpants to the office the day of your liposuction surgery. Do not wear any jewelry, including wedding rings, necklaces, watches, etc.
We perform all liposuction under local anesthesia, so we do recommend that you eat a moderate meal for breakfast and/or lunch the day of your liposuction surgery (unlike general anesthesia where you would need to fast for 6-8 hours prior to your surgery).
What to Pack for Liposuction Surgery Day
Most surgeries are completed in 2-3 hours or less, so you won’t need much! Be sure to pack your wallet, phone, loose-fitting & dark colored clothing, socks, and a beanie to stay warm in the operating room. You can also bring an iPod or headphones to listen to music or audio books while in surgery.
Reminder
In the weeks leading up to your liposuction surgery you should stay active, eat a healthy and balanced diet, and avoid foods high sodium (causes swelling) in order to maintain your weight prior to surgery. It’s important to remember that liposuction is not a free pass to let loose and gain weight right before (or after) surgery. Plus, building muscle will only make your liposuction results THAT much better!
Real Houston Lipo Center Patients