How to Prepare for Liposuction: Avoiding Common Pre-Surgery Mistakes
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Undergoing liposuction is an exciting step toward achieving a slimmer, more defined figure, but setting yourself up for a smooth recovery and optimal outcome starts well before surgery. Being prepared for your procedure is key to minimizing avoidable setbacks and maximizing the cosmetic benefits of liposuction. Preparation may include a combination of things you should do — like getting your home ready— and things you shouldn't do before lipo — like smoking.
At Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery in Beverly Hills, CA, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall offers a wide range of body contouring solutions, including traditional and HD liposuction, tailored to each patient's unique goals and anatomy. Below, you'll find important tips to help you avoid common liposuction preparation mistakes and make your experience a more successful one.
What does liposuction do?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure used to reduce fat in areas that haven't responded to diet and exercise. Whether you are struggling with a stubborn belly pooch, love handles, or another concern, liposuction can help contour your body by removing unwanted fat cells. At our Beverly Hills plastic surgery practice, Dr. Marshall also offers high-def (HD) liposuction, a specialized technique that defines and sculpts the underlying musculature for a more athletic, chiseled look. These treatments are not a substitute for weight loss, but they can significantly improve the shape and proportions of your body when performed appropriately.
How should I prepare for liposuction?
Knowing what to do — and what not to do — in the weeks leading up to surgery can make a noticeable difference in your liposuction recovery timeline and long-term outcome. Some of the most important steps to prepare for liposuction include the following:
Attend your preoperative consultation
Your consultation is the perfect time to review your medical history, ask questions, and learn what to expect before, during, and after your procedure.
Follow medication instructions
Dr. Marshall will review your current medications and supplements and advise whether any should be adjusted or paused temporarily. Remember, you should never start, stop, or adjust medications without consulting your medical providers or care team, including your primary care doctor.
Avoid smoking and alcohol
Tobacco and alcohol can impair healing and increase surgical risks. Patients should stop both well in advance of surgery.
Maintain a healthy lifestyle
Stable weight, regular exercise, and a nutrient-rich diet support a safer surgery and better healing.
Prepare your home and recovery space
Stock your fridge with healthy meals, set up a comfortable recovery area, and arrange for help around the house for the first few days.
What to avoid before lipo
In addition to following Dr. Marshall's pre-op instructions, it's important to avoid certain habits or missteps that could affect your outcome. Some of the most common mistakes people make before liposuction include:
- Skipping meals or fasting to "speed up" fat loss
- Taking over-the-counter medications or supplements that thin the blood
- Failing to disclose medical history or lifestyle factors
- Not lining up postoperative care or transportation in advance
- Setting unrealistic expectations about the results or timing
Dr. Marshall will ensure you have clear, personalized instructions so you can feel confident about how to prepare for your procedure and what to expect throughout your journey, including during recovery after liposuction.
What kind of results can I expect from liposuction?
Patients who follow their liposuction postoperative instructions, maintain a stable weight, and live an overall healthy lifestyle will likely enjoy lasting, visible results after liposuction. Fat cells that are removed do not return, but new fat accumulation can occur with weight gain, making it important to be near your goal weight prior to surgery and to remain committed to long-term healthy habits for the most consistent, lasting results possible.
Slim down in time for summer with liposuction in Beverly Hills, CA
Setting yourself up for a successful liposuction procedure starts long before your surgery takes place. At Andre P. Marshall Plastic Surgery, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Andre Marshall provides Beverly Hills lipo patients with advanced liposuction and HD liposuction solutions — along with pre-op guidance and post-op support — to help achieve their ideal figure safely. Call our friendly team today to schedule your consultation and learn more about how to prepare for liposuction the right way.