How To Prepare For Your Liposuction Procedure
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a Phoenix plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He is also a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Dr. Angelchik is well-trained and experienced in all forms of plastic surgery, namely breast enhancement and facial rejuvenation. He has been serving patients for over 20 years. Dr. Angelchik brings his surgical experience, expertise, and quality care to patients in and around Phoenix, Arizona.
Liposuction is a popular procedure for men and women who are bothered by stubborn fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. If you’ve been considering liposuction, it is important to know how you can prepare for your procedure to ensure a smooth treatment process.
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic surgery that eliminates stubborn pockets of fat from areas like the abdomen, back, arms, legs, and under the chin. Dr. Angelchik offers two types of liposuction: ultrasound-assisted liposuction which uses ultrasonic vibrations to liquify fat cells and power-assisted liposuction to break up large fat deposits and fibrous tissues. Both techniques are designed for easier removal of the fat, which creates more aesthetically pleasing results.
Steps for Preparation
Preparing for your liposuction procedure will set you up for great results. These are a few things to consider before scheduling your surgery:
Reach Your Target Weight
Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. It is intended to remove stubborn fat that is resistant to diet and exercise. Before your procedure, we recommend patients hit their weight goal so that they can be in good health on the day of surgery. Reaching your target weight before surgery will also allow you and your doctor to visualize places where fat is resistant to your weight loss efforts.
Build Muscle
If you build muscle before your liposuction procedure, you can expect fantastic results. Excess fat covers up the underlying muscular structure. Although you might not see a fully toned and muscular physique before liposuction, muscle definition will be visible after liposuction removes the overlying fat.
Change Your Diet
A healthy diet is essential to maintain your target weight and the results of your liposuction procedure. Starting healthy habits before surgery will also prepare your body for recovery. Healthy foods supply your body with the necessary nutrients for quick healing. We recommend foods high in antioxidants like berries, cucumbers, celery, squashes, and spices like cinnamon and turmeric. Healthy oils like olive oil and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish, nuts, and seeds, will also strengthen your body and boost your health.
Stop Smoking
Smoking has detrimental effects on your health, especially before surgery. Nicotine found in cigarettes restricts the blood vessels and slows blood flow. A good blood flow is necessary to deliver oxygen and nutrients to healing areas of the body, which means smoking can slow down your recovery process. We recommend patients avoid smoking for at least six weeks before and six weeks after their liposuction procedure.
Set Up for Recovery
Creating a comfortable home environment to rest and recover is a great way to prepare for any cosmetic procedure. Patients should expect to spend two weeks avoiding strenuous activities and relaxing as much as possible. Stock up on easy-to-prepare foods, books or other forms of entertainment, and anti-inflammatory medications and ice packs. Having extra-long charging cords and comfortable clothing that is easily accessible is also helpful. You should also arrange with family and friends to help with daily chores, children, and pets.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
Patients should stop eating 8 hours before and stop drinking 6 hours before their surgery. On the day of your liposuction procedure, we recommend that you wear comfortable clothing and remove all jewelry. Do not apply deodorant, body creams, or perfumes on the day of your surgery. You should also shower the night before or the morning of your surgery day since your incisions need to be kept dry for the first few days.
Schedule Your Consultation
Dr. Paul Angelchik is a board-certified plastic surgeon who is well-known for his personalized treatment plans and natural-looking results. If you are interested in liposuction and want to know more about the procedure, we encourage you to call our office in Glendale, AZ, or schedule an appointment online.
