Q & A

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Q: Will I be awake for the procedure? What will I feel?

A: You will be awake, but relaxed. You will not feel pain. The most you will feel will be pressure or few twinges.   Tumescent liposuction has proven to be the safest method of liposuction, because the risks associated with general anesthesia are eliminated. We use lidocaine to thoroughly numb the fat to be removed, and add epinephrine to greatly reduce bleeding in the area.   This will allow you to have less bruising, swelling, and a shorter recovery time.

Q: Where is the procedure done?

A: Your Smartlipo procedure will be performed in our Alpharetta office, in our own operating room.

Q: What medication should I discontinue before the procedure?

A: Please avoid aspirin and ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin) two weeks prior to your surgery. In addition, stop taking vitamins and herbal supplements. We also recommend avoiding all types of alcohol for two weeks before surgery. We will discuss other medications specific to your situation at your consultation.

Q: What if I smoke or use recreational drugs?

A: As with any surgical procedure, smokers should be aware that tobacco use interferes with the blood's ability to carry oxygen cells, and slows the healing process. Street drugs can be very risky when combined with the lidocaine anesthetic used in Smartlipo.

Q: Can I eat just before the procedure?

A: Yes, please eat a light meal. We want you to have some food in your stomach so that the oral medication will not upset your stomach.

Q: What can I expect when I get home?

A: You need to spend two days lying around the house. It is important to spend this time lying rather than sitting, so that permanent creases do not form in the skin on the abdomen. You should wear loose fitting clothes. It is normal to experience some fluid leakage from the lower incisions for a day or two. We recommend that you wear Depends underwear to protect your bedding, carpet and clothes from the leakage. The leakage may last for 1-2 days, and will stop on its own. Expect some bruising and swelling.

Most patients are able to return to work in 1-3 days. You may gradually resume your normal activities. You may return to your exercise routine in about a week or two, depending on the area treated. Although you will be able to see an improvement in your shape immediately after surgery, it takes about 3 months until all swelling has resolved and the area has healed completely.

Contact Cathy by email or call 404-832-0300 with questions or to make an appointment. We also can arrange for a free demonstration in our office. We know you'll be pleased. Register now to receive our newsletter and special offers.