INFORMATION FOR LIPOSUCTION PATIENTS

Liposuction/Liposculpture/ Suction lipectomy is a method of contouring body shape by removal of excess fat using suction cannulas through small incisions. It is rarely a procedure for weight loss. The area of the body and amount of the tissue to be suctioned determines whether local tumescent anaesthesia or general anaesthesia will be required.

Preoperative Instructions — Preoperative chest X ray, ECG and blood test may be required. If varicose veins are present, they may have to be stripped 3 months before liposuction of the legs. Stretch marks cannot be removed. There should be no weight gain before surgery. If a patient has had problems with drugs or alcohol abuse at any time, it should be notified to the surgeon prior to scheduling the surgery. No smoking for at least 1 month before and after surgery. Any previous history of excessive bleeding and bruising should be informed to the surgeon. Any prior mental problems or psychological disorders should be informed by the patient to the doctor. Patient suffering from hypertension should have their blood pressure controlled. If a patient is on anticoagulant medication or bloodthinners , they have to be stopped   before surgery . Only after the blood parameters are standardised, patient is scheduled for surgery. No Aspirin or any other products containing Aspirin/ salicyclic acid are to be taken at least 2 weeks prior to the surgry and for at least 1 week after surgery. Transfusions are almost never required. Do not take vitamins, especially vitamins C and E for 2 weeks prior to surgery and 1 week after surgery. All hormonal  preparations( including birth control pills and replacement therapy)  are  discontinued 3 weeks prior to  surgery  and for 2 weeks after surgery  ( after consulting with the family physician ) . It is better not to schedule surgery on a day close to menstrual period. It is preferable not to do the surgery on the first 5 days of menstrual bleeding.

Postoperative Advice — Some pink drainage is to be expected on the first couple of post operative days and is normal. Dressings are changed if needed. Patient should make sure that there is no allergy to the pain medication and antibiotic prescribed. Patients are instructed about diet and limitations of activities. A rest in home for a few days may be required. Normal activities may be resumed after 3-4 days.  Shower may be started 3-4 days after the surgery. Sleeping with leg elevated will help in decreasing leg swelling, if it happens. Discomfort, fatigue and swelling may last for some time after surgery, which spontaneously recovers .Physical therapy with massage would help in reducing edema and lumps, which may rarely occur. It takes some time for the final result of the surgery to manifest itself. If a patient requests for some surgical revisions, it should be done only after a minimum of 3 months. Finally it should be made clear to the patient that after surgery dietic restrictions and physical activity should be encouraged, to prevent weight gain, which would replace all the fat that has been removed.