What to Expect on the Day of Liposuction Surgery
On the day of your procedure, the type of anesthesia will vary depending on the area of concern. For smaller areas, we will use a local anesthetic, with larger areas and extensive procedures requiring general anesthesia to be administered.
Dr. Papanicolaou will begin by making strategically placed, tiny incisions, usually only a few millimeters in length. Through these small openings, a cannula (a very thin tube with a blunt tip) is inserted to remove and suck out the stubborn fat cells. This is possible as the cannula is connected to a rubber tubing that is attached to a high vacuum pressure machine.
The procedure length varies from as short as 30 minutes to as long as several hours depending upon the area of the body being targeted.
Liposuction Recovery
After surgery, you will be monitored in our recovery room until Dr. Papanicolaou decides that you are safe to be discharged. You will need a family member or friend available to drive you home in case you are still feeling some of the effects of sedation.
You will likely experience some fluid drainage from the incisions so Dr. Papanicolaou may leave a small drainage tube inserted beneath your skin for a couple of days to control this. You may also be fitted with a snug elastic compression garment to wear over the treated area for a few weeks to manage swelling and help your skin form to its new contours.
During your initial recovery period, you might experience some pain, burning, swelling, bleeding, and temporary numbness. Dr. Papanicolaou will prescribe you some temporary medications to prevent infection, reduce swelling, and alleviate any pain.
Usually, patients resume work and their everyday activities about one week after the procedure. Patients should avoid vigorous activities such as exercise for several more weeks as directed.
You will also be sent home with post-surgical care instructions. Please follow them with care and precision.
