Many people think of liposuction as a magic solution for stubborn fat bulges. But that’s not true; the liposuction surgery journey starts weeks before the day of surgery and ends with successful healing. Most patients overlook the pre- and post-operative phases of their liposuction surgery, and their mistakes make their results unsatisfactory.     

Knowing what to expect before, during, and after the liposuction procedure can make the entire surgery process go smoothly, safely, and be highly rewarding. From being mentally and physically prepared for a surgery to understanding recovery timelines and maintaining the results, every step counts. In this blog, liposuction surgeon in Mumbai discuss what to do and avoid before and after surgery to build and maintain favourable, renewed, lasting confidence.

A Walk-Through Liposuction Surgery Journey: A Step-by-Step Guide to Liposuction Experience

What happens during a Liposuction Surgery Consultation?

The surgery journey commences with a detailed initial consultation with a certified, qualified cosmetic surgeon. During the visit, the surgeon will:

• Assess the targeted areas of concern
• Review the medical records
• Discuss the aesthetic goals
• Help establish realistic expectations
• Explain the best-suited liposuction techniques
• Confirm the suitability for liposuction
• Create a tailored treatment plan.

Liposuction surgery is ideal for those who maintain a healthy body weight, have elastic skin, have no bleeding or healing disorders, have realistic expectations, and have no issues that would interfere with surgery or its recovery. Childbearing and breastfeeding women are not suitable candidates.

How to Prepare for Liposuction?

If you decided to proceed with the surgery, in the days leading up to the surgery, here’s how to prepare for Liposuction surgery:

• Start having nutritious meals and stay properly hydrated
• Get the targeted areas strategically marked
• Arrange for at-home assistance and even a driver to go back home
• Following these pre-operative care instructions will help ensure smooth, safe surgery
• Go for pre-operative blood tests and get medical clearance for the surgery
• Be honest and share details about current medication/supplement intake and any existing illnesses
• Switch to a healthy lifestyle. Stop smoking nicotine and consuming alcohol, as these can impair healing.

How is Liposuction Performed?

Liposuction surgery is usually performed on the targeted area while it is numb. If multiple regions are targeted in a single session, a sedation or general anaesthesia is provided after thorough cleaning of the sites. Overall, surgery takes 1-3 hours and involves:

• Closing of incisions with sutures and surgical dressing
• Making of hidden incisions in the targeted area
• Dislodging of unwanted fat and removal of stubborn fat with the help of a vacuum-fitted cannula
• There are different techniques available: gold-standard tumescent liposuction, power-assisted liposuction, ultrasound-assisted liposuction, and laser-assisted liposuction.

How is the Recovery After Liposuction?

Liposuction recovery time varies widely among patients and targeted areas.

Here’s the expected liposuction healing timeline:

• Initial Few Days of Recovery- Most patients experience mild to moderate pain, extreme swelling, and slight bruising. Some may have blood or other fluids draining from incision sites.
• Weeks 1-4- Swelling gradually reduces, bruising fades, and temporary numbness or tingling may occur with natural healing of nerves. The remaining swelling can make the treated areas feel lumpy or hard. Most patients resume work in a week.
• Months 1-3- As swelling resolves, the skin of the operated area tightens, and body contours become more defined. Residual firmness slowly softens with healing and lymphatic drainage.
• Months 3-6 or Beyond- Usually, most of the swelling has resolved, scars continue to fade, and effects appear more refined. Complete healing and final results may take up to 6–12 months, depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure.
  
  Note: Recovery phase can vary from patient to patient. Consult to a doctor for more details.

For a smooth recovery, the surgeon asks that you diligently follow the recommended liposuction aftercare plan. Here are the general dos and don’ts after Liposuction surgery:

• Wear a compression garment 24/7 until the surgeon advises and new contours are achieved, to help lessen swelling and support natural healing.
• Avoid strenuous activities for 3 to 4 weeks or beyond. Slowly resume moderate activities and regular exercise, as advised by the surgeon
• Keep the incision sites clean and dry as per the surgeon’s recommended wound care instructions. Do not soak the area or have long, frequent showers and hot baths.
• Manage post-operative discomfort with prescribed painkillers and also take prescription antibiotics to avoid infections
• Take enough rest, but gentle walking is a must just after surgery to avoid blood clots
• Get a lymphatic massage for at least a week
• Listen to your body and be gentle with it.

What are the Expected Results After Liposuction?

Desired outcomes of liposuction surgery typically become apparent 2-3 months after surgery, once post-operative swelling has completely resolved.

The operated areas finally appear slimmer, well-sculpted, and better proportioned to the natural body shape.

Tips to Maintain Liposuction Results for Long-Term

Weight gain increases body mass, which could hinder liposuction efficacy, potentially impacting 

liposuction outcomes and the longevity of results. Bad lifestyle habits and being unserious about follow-ups can also make it hard for results to last long.

So, to be in new contours for years to come, the surgeon recommends:

• Stay hydrated
• Manage stress
• Follow a well-balanced diet plan
• Get proper sleep at night
• Switch to an active routine
• Avoid smoking, alcohol, and caffeine
• Attend all follow-up visits with the surgeon to monitor healing progress, make necessary adjustments to the aftercare routine, and manage scars.

What is the cost of liposuction surgery?

As the procedure is customized to the patient's needs and requirements, liposuction surgery costs in Mumbai can start from INR 80,000. The cost deciding factors include:

• Target body areas
• Amount of fat to be removed
• Patient expectations
• Doctor experience
• Type of technique performed
• Clinic location and facility offered.

The Final Thoughts: Liposuction Success Relies on Your Preparation and Aftercare.

Liposuction surgery has potential risks that can be minimised with proper preparation and aftercare. It is crucial to follow the plastic surgeon's pre-operative and post-operative plans to ensure safety and a high liposuction success rate. These plans can only be shared by a certified, experienced liposuction surgeon. In Mumbai, Dr. Parag Telang is a leading plastic surgeon with extensive experience and expertise in all types of liposuction techniques. One can consult him for liposuction in Mumbai at plastic and cosmetic surgery clinic, Designer Bodyz clinic for details. 

Note: This content is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical consultation.