Liposuction uses suction to remove fat from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, hips, thighs, buttocks, arms or neck, and shapes these areas. It is not a method of overall weight loss or an alternative to losing weight.
Before surgery
- Tell your doctor about your medical history, any drug allergies and the medicines you take.
- Some medicines and vitamins, such as vitamin E, and some foods and spices, such as turmeric, pepper and ginger, thin the blood and can cause internal bleeding after the procedure. Avoid them for at least one week – and up to one month – before surgery.
- Do not take anticoagulants such as aspirin or warfarin for 2 weeks before the procedure; they increase the risk of bleeding during the operation.
- Stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least 2 weeks before surgery to avoid complications during the operation.
After surgery
- Look after the liposuction sites carefully to prevent bacterial growth and infection.
- Smoking and alcohol prolong recovery; avoid them for at least one month after body contouring.
- Do not bathe until your doctor allows it – usually once the wounds have closed – because water entering the openings can cause infection.
- Take antibiotics for up to two weeks, as prescribed.
- Avoid swimming pools, jacuzzis and saunas for a month, and do not sit in a bathtub during this time.
- After two days of rest you can walk gently, taking short steps over short distances.
- Only your doctor should remove the dressings.
- Get and wear the special compression garment. It helps drain fluid after the operation, prevents infection, supports your new body shape and speeds recovery.
Tests and consultations needed before surgery
- Laboratory tests: CBC, PT, PTT, FBS, BUN, Cr, AST, ALT, T4, TSH, TG, cholesterol (LDL, HDL)
- Imaging: Ultrasound of the abdomen, pelvis and abdominal wall to check for hernia
- Consultations: Internal medicine and cardiology consultation if the patient is over 40