How to Prepare for Liposuction

Planning for liposuction should be focused on setting yourself up for the best possible experience and outcome. At Plastic Surgery Vegas, board-certified plastic surgeons Andrew G. Silver, MD, FACS, and Terrence "Terry" Higgins, MD, FACS, guide patients in Las Vegas, NV through each step of the liposuction journey, from preoperative preparation to recovery and beyond.

This will include guidance on completing necessary lab work and preoperative appointments as required, booking time off work, and lining up help around the house and with the children, to name a few of the most important preparation steps for liposuction. Whether you're just starting your research or already have a date scheduled, here's what you should know about getting ready for lipo.

Is there anything you need to do before liposuction?

There are a few important steps you can take before liposuction to help ensure your body is ready for surgery and that you feel prepared. These may include:

• Attending your consultation and discussing your health history
• Completing any lab work or medical clearance required
• Staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet in the weeks before surgery
• Making arrangements for time off work and postoperative support with chores, children, etc.
• Filling prescriptions your surgeon provides ahead of time

Again, our team will walk you through preoperative instructions for liposuction so you can feel confident and informed.

What are the things you should avoid before liposuction?

In the days and weeks leading up to your procedure, it's important to avoid certain habits, medications, and lifestyle factors that could affect your results or increase surgical risk. Your surgeon may advise you to avoid some or all of the following things you shouldn't do before liposuction:

• Smoking or nicotine use, which can impair healing
• Blood-thinning medications and supplements, such as aspirin or fish oil
• Alcohol use for at least 48 hours before surgery
• Sunburns or skin irritation in the treatment area
• Strenuous physical activity close to your procedure date

You'll receive detailed guidelines for liposuction customized to your health and the specifics of your surgical plan.

Do I need to lose weight before getting lipo?

It is important for patients to keep in mind that liposuction is not a weight loss solution. Instead, it's designed to contour and reshape areas of stubborn fat that don't respond to diet or exercise. Ideal candidates for liposuction are already at or near their goal weight but want to refine specific trouble spots. If you're significantly above your ideal weight, your surgeon may recommend:

• Reaching a more stable weight before proceeding
• Incorporating healthy lifestyle habits to support your long-term results
• Exploring complementary procedures that may better suit your goals

Dr. Silver and Dr. Higgins will evaluate your candidacy for liposuction during a one-on-one consultation and help you understand how surgery can fit into your broader health and wellness plan.

How can I prepare myself for liposuction recovery?

Recovery planning is also a critical part of preparing for liposuction. The more prepared you are, the more smoothly your healing process will likely go. You can support your recovery after lipo ahead of time by:

• Setting up a comfortable rest area at home with essentials close by
• Arranging for someone to drive you home and help during the first few days
• Wearing your postsurgical compression garments as directed
• Keeping follow-up appointments with our team
• Following postoperative care instructions carefully

Mild swelling, bruising, and soreness are common in the first week, but most patients begin to feel significantly better within 7 – 10 days. Full results after liposuction can continue to develop over the coming months as swelling subsides, after which time you can show off a slimmer, smoother, sexier new shape with confidence.

Slim down and love the life you deserve with liposuction in Las Vegas, NV

If you're ready to feel more confident in your skin and finally address your most stubborn problem areas, our team at Plastic Surgery Vegas is here to help. Our experienced, board-certified plastic surgeons — Dr. Andrew G. Silver and Dr. Terrence "Terry" Higgins — specialize in safe and advanced liposuction techniques tailored to your goals. Contact us to schedule your liposuction consultation in Las Vegas, NV today, and take the first step toward a more sculpted, confident you.