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3. Take the Skin Quiz

Medical Author:

Joel Schlessinger, MD

Medical Editor:

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, Chief Medical Editor

Melissa Conrad Stöppler, MD, is a U.S. board-certified Anatomic Pathologist with subspecialty training in the fields of Experimental and Molecular Pathology. Dr. Stöppler's educational background includes a BA with Highest Distinction from the University of Virginia and an MD from the University of North Carolina. She completed residency training in Anatomic Pathology at Georgetown University followed by subspecialty fellowship training in molecular diagnostics and experimental pathology.

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There is an initial consultation before the procedure, at which time the surgeon will evaluate the areas to be suctioned. These may be the chin, abdomen, chest (both male and female), hips, thighs (both inner and outer), knees, calves, and arms. Initial photographs are taken, and results of the surgeon's prior work or illustrative examples of the procedure may be shown to the patient. Additionally, many offices can show prospective patients their own pictures on a computer and manipulating the picture (or drawing on the computerized picture) to illustrate the expected results.

During this consultation, information on the procedure is given, and the risks are explained. Questions the prospective patient has are answered. If the patient is deemed a good candidate for tumescent liposuction, they then will be scheduled for a pre-liposuction evaluation. Laser-assisted liposuction may be recommended to accompany the tumescent method as well.

The patient who undergoes this procedure is typically evaluated at least one to two weeks before the procedure and, at that time, blood tests, medical history and physical, measurements, and photographs are taken. Depending on results of the history and physical examination, the patient may need further evaluation, medical clearance from a primary physician, EKG, and/or other tests performed before the procedure.

At the time of the preoperative evaluation, an informed consent is given if it is close to the time of the procedure. This may include a written and, in some practices, a computer-generated, informed consent form with examples of potential complications and expectations of the surgery.

Before surgery, the patient is advised of which, if any, medications they will be taking before, during, and after the surgery. Additionally, if there are any medications that need to be stopped before surgery, this is communicated as well. Certain pain relievers, such as aspirin and non-steroidal anti-inflammatory agents (such as ibuprofen [Advil] or naproxen [Aleve]) are to be avoided for at least seven days before the surgery. Some surgeons may advise the patient to stop other medications, such as thyroid medications, antidepressants, and various antibiotics in preparation for the surgery.