Have you been considering liposuction, but not sure what to expect? If you have been toying with the idea of having liposuction, you have probably done some internet research. You may have been impressed by slick websites promising transformational results, or you may have been disturbed by stories of procedures gone wrong.

Like any invasive surgery, the benefits can’t be gained without some risks. It is important that you understand the risks and benefits of having liposuction so you can make an informed decision that is right for you. In this article, we provide some guidance on what to expect before, during and after liposuction surgery.

Preparing For Your Consultation With Your Surgeon

Before you consult with a surgeon, have some questions prepared. Write them down to take with you so you don't forget what you wanted to ask and take notes during the consultation in case you need to check details later.

Some points you might like to ask about are:

• What are your expectations of the results? Ask to see the results from previous patients to give you an idea of what is achievable.
• What are your concerns about the procedure? Is there anything about the surgery that worries you?
• What is the most effective procedure for you? There are many variations of liposuction and some have additional risks and costs.
• You could also ask questions about the surgeon's qualifications and experience, how often they perform liposuction, where the surgery will be performed and what the costs include, so that you know if there will be any additional costs.

What To Expect On The Day Of Your Surgery

Your surgeon will give you a list of instructions to follow before your liposuction surgery. If you are a smoker, you will need stop smoking six weeks before and after your surgery. Smoking and some medicines increase the risk of complications so it’s really important to tell your surgeon everything you take before your surgery, even herbal supplements.

Before the procedure, the surgeon will draw the areas on your skin where the fat will be removed. After that, the anaesthetist will administer your general anaesthetic.  Once you are under anaesthetic, the surgery will begin. Depending on how many areas are being treated, the procedure takes between 1 and 2 hours. You may need to stay in hospital overnight or you may be able to go home within a few hours, once you have recovered from the anaesthetic. You won't be able to drive after a general anaesthetic, so arrange for a responsible adult to collect you from the hospital and take you home.

What Happens After Surgery?

You will be a bit bruised and sore after your surgery and for a few days after. You will need to wear elastic compression garments for several weeks to control the bruising and swelling of the treated areas  and help your skin to take up smoothly over your new body contour.

You will be asked to get up and walking after your surgery to decrease the risk of developing blood clots. Prepare a 'recovery area' with pillows, ice packs, a thermometer and a telephone within easy reach to aid your recovery once you return at home. For your safety,  should stay with you for at least 24 hours after you return home.

The decision to have liposuction surgery is very personal and should only be made once you understand the risks and results that can be achieved. Liposuction is generally a safe procedure and the best way to make sure you get a great result is by choosing a suitably qualified and experienced surgeon.

Next Step

If you are considering liposuction and have questions you would like to ask or if you would like to book a confidential consultation at a cost of $140, click below or call (03) 9088 5000 for the Melbourne practice or (07) 3180 3400 for the Brisbane practice. The Cosmetic Surgery Co-ordinators of NorthEast Plastic Surgery will organise a consultation with Mr Tansley or Dr Seneviratne who are highly qualified and experienced surgeons. They will assess your individual requirements and discuss your preferences in regard to liposuction surgery.