At Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery in Virginia Beach, we strive to give you beautiful results from plastic surgery procedures. Great results start with the right preparation before your procedure. If you have scheduled a liposuction procedure, take the following steps before surgery to ensure a great recovery:
Stop Smoking
Smoking affects your body’s ability to heal. To heal faster with a lower risk for complications, stop smoking at least a few weeks before your surgery.
Phone a Friend
You will need a friend or family member to drive you home from the surgery. We won’t start a surgical procedure unless your loved one is there and ready to care for you.
Plan Ahead
Many patients may need to take time off work to fully recover. Recovery time varies, with some patients needing only a weekend and others needing a week. Be sure you have your vacation days scheduled so you have time to fully heal.
Reach a Stable, Sustainable Weight
For long-lasting results, you need to be able to eat well and exercise after surgery. You should have a healthy diet that you can maintain long-term and exercise regularly every week.
Fill Your Prescriptions
Your physician will likely give you a prescription for pain medicine to use after surgery. Have this prescription filled before your procedure to save a stop on the way home from surgery and ensure you remain comfortable throughout recovery. You may also want to be sure you have hydrogen peroxide for cleaning the small incisions and cold packs to help with swelling and discomfort.
Stop Taking Certain Medicines
Certain medicines, like blood thinners or aspirin, can affect your recovery. Talk to Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery about any prescription and over-the-counter medicines you take. He may suggest you stop taking these medicines for awhile before and after surgery.
Get Your Netflix Queue Ready
You may be spending a lot of time on the couch as you recover. Having books and movies available can help you relax as you heal. You will also want to walk for a short time every day to speed your recovery.
Do Your Research
Before you have liposuction, you should understand what procedure you are having and what to expect during and after the procedure. You can search online for reliable sources, like the American Society of Plastic Surgeons website, or simply ask Galardi | Bowen Plastic Surgery and his experienced staff any questions you have.