Home Before and After Photos Find Top Surgeons Ask Top Surgeons Check Doctor Credentials Average Liposuction Costs Before Liposuction Surgery The Surgery After Surgery Risks and Complications Liposuction Before and After Pictures Other Cosmetic Surgery Procedures Cosmetic Surgery Financing Site Map Contact Us			Liposuction Surgery click on a link to jump to a section good candidate initial consultation pre-op preparation good candidates for liposuction A good candidate for Liposuction: Is close to their ideal body weight (within 30%) Wants to remove specific areas of fat that are diet- and exercise-resistant (fat pockets in the abdomen, arms, knees, inner thighs, love handles, neck, outer thighs Weight has been stable for 6 months or more Has good skin tone and elasticity Does not have loose or saggy skin Does not have stretch marks Has realistic expectations Is emotionally stable Understands the risks of surgery If you do not meet all of these criteria, but meet some of them, you may still be a good candidate for liposuction. The procedure is most suited to those who are close to their ideal body weight, but if you have a lot of fat in a isolated area, you may still be a good candidate. Some patients find liposuction to be a good incentive for weight loss, but it is not a remedy for obesity. If you have good skin tone, it is more likely that your skin will respond well to the surgery. Patients with saggy skin or stretch marks are more likely not to tighten and may in some cases look worse. A thigh lift or tummy tuck (depending on your problem area) may be more effective. Patients planning to have large volume liposuction, which involves the removal of more than 5 liters (5,000 cc's; about 11 pounds) of fat and fluid may have an overnight stay at the hospital. You are also at increased risk for complications from liposuction if you have diabetes, poor circulation, heart, lung or liver disease, smoke, have a family history of blood clots, take certain medications, etc. You'll want to discuss your medical history thoroughly with your physician before you choose to undergo surgery. initial consultation At the initial visit, your doctor will likely ask you to describe in detail what you would like improved. Be specific about what you would like done. If your surgeon fully understands your expectations, she'll be able to determine whether your goals are realistic. Your physician will evaluate your overall weight, your skin and muscle tone, and the distribution of fat deposits to determine which techniques will be employed, where incisions will be made and what results can be achieved. Your skin type, thickness and texture, your age, if you are a smoker and pre-existing sun damage will all effect the final result. pre-op preparation [ ] Do not take aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications (your doctor can provide you with a list of OTC medications to avoid) [ ] If you smoke, quit smoking for at least 2 weeks pre-op (and anticipate no smoking for the recovery, smoking greatly increases your risk of complications) [ ] Obtain a copy of your doctor's protocol [ ] Make arrangements to have someone drive you to and from the operation [ ] Arrange for someone to care for you the first 24-48 hours after surgery [ ] Fill prescriptions (especially pain medications) before surgery [ ] Purchase any homeopathic medicines (i.e. Bromelain and Arnica Gel, for swelling and bruising) Be sure to discuss this with your doctor [ ] Prepare and freeze 2 weeks worth of meals in advance Consider for quick preparation: Protein shakes, soup, pudding, applesauce, yogurt, oatmeal, cottage cheese, juice, crackers Be sure to get adequate protein, it is necessary for proper healing Talk to your doctor about low-sodium foods to reduce swelling [ ] Set up home recovery area: lots of pillows of different sizes (try a body pillow), books, magazines, journal, stationery, lotion, baby wipes, tv, videos, remote control [ ] Telephone with speaker phone near your bed [ ] Moisturizers, scar-minimizing creams (such as Mederma) and petroleum jelly for incisions, Benadryl and oatmeal soap for post-op itching [ ] Laxatives (pain medications are often binding) [ ] Consider hand-held shower head and bathroom chair [ ] Consider scheduling appointments with a massage therapist for lymphatic drainage massage to relieve swelling and possible itching (discuss this with your doctor) [ ] On the day of surgery, wear loose clothing which will be easy to get off and on after operation [ ] Follow your physician's directions carefully regarding medications, eating & drinking, etc. To view liposuction before and after pictures, check out our Liposuction Before and After Pictures. Information provided is for general education about ultrasonic liposuction, tumescent liposuction and other cosmetic surgery procedures. This information is subject to change. Smart Liposuction.com does not guarantee that it is accurate or complete, and is not responsible for any actions resulting from the use of this information. General information provided in this fashion should not be construed as specific medical advice or recommendation, and is not a substitute for a consultation and physical examination by a physician. Only discussion of your individual needs with a qualified physician will determine the best method of treatment for you. All board certified plastic surgeons listed are board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Board certified plastic surgeons are verified by the American Board of Medical Specialties. © Copyright 2002-2008. Smart Liposuction.com All rights reserved.