Regardless of how minor or major the surgery is, there are still preparations you will need to make before surgery. In order to keep the process as simple and smooth as possible, it is important to prepare your body and mind before the procedure as well as preparing your home and schedule after the procedure.
Having everything set beforehand can also keep you relaxed as the surgery date nears, for you have everything taken care of to make sure you are as comfortable as before and after the procedure.
Here are a few things to keep when it comes to preparing for your liposuction surgery:
Final Preparations with Physician
Before surgery, you will meet with your physician beforehand to discuss any test results, x-rays, or other information he or she deems relevant to the procedure. If you have any questions, this is the perfect time to ask, as you still have time before the surgery to get everything in order.
Additionally, it is possible that your physician may have you use a specific antibacterial soap before your surgery in order to remove all bacteria from your skin, which helps to reduce any risk of possible infection.
Prepare Your Body
It is important to prepare your body before undergoing a liposuction procedure. Many think of liposuction as a form of weight loss, and while it does remove fat from the body, if your weight is not stabilized beforehand, any weight gain after the procedure can damage the results.
Before surgery, make sure that you are maintaining your proper weight through a healthy diet and through regular exercise. Being in shape can also prepare your body for liposuction recovery, actually making recovery a bit easier.
Additionally, when preparing for your surgery, you will need to stop smoking at least a few months before the procedure. Smoking actually deprives your body of oxygen and can hinder your body’s ability to heal properly after surgery. Most physicians suggest quitting smoking permanently to ensure your body heals properly.
Lastly, you may need to adjust your medications before surgery. Make sure to disclose to your physician what medications or vitamins you are taking and he or she can determine what you need to adjust in order to ensure that your body responds safely to the procedure and anesthesia.
Prepare Your Home
Liposuction does require a bit of recovery, thus in order to make sure you are well taken care of, it is smart to prepare your house beforehand. Stock up on items like gauze, pain medications, lotions, and ice packs.
If possible, it is best to avoid going up and down stairs, as your body needs to rest with as little activities as possible. Listen to your body, as it will tell you when your body is ready to start walking and moving around more. To avoid as much movement as possible, before surgery, set up an area designated for your recovery that is stocked with plenty of water, all electronics, extra towels, and tissues.
Prepare meals and snacks beforehand that can be easily made, avoid alcohol or an excessive intake of caffeine, and drink plenty of water.
The Day of Surgery
Since you will be unable to wash your hair right away after surgery, many women recommend washing it right before the procedure in order to feel as clean as possible. Moreover, wear comfortable clothing on the day of the procedure, as it is necessary you can easily get your clothing on and off. Make sure to remove all nail polish before surgery, as the anesthesiologist will use your fingers to gauge your oxygen levels while you are under anesthesia during surgery.
After surgery, you will need to have someone drive you home, as your doctor’s office will not allow you to drive after being under anesthesia.
Being prepared for liposuction surgery can ensure that the before and after process is as smooth as possible so you can focus on relaxing and healing properly after surgery.