There are many restrictions placed on plastic surgery patients after a procedure in order to avoid complications and aid in the all-important healing process.
However, the path to good results starts earlier—weeks before going into surgery. If you are considering SmartlipoTM, then you probably know how gentle the procedure is, and how minimal the recovery time.
However, that does not mean you will be exempt from pre-operative restrictions. Here are some things to avoid before undergoing laser liposuction.
Certain Herbal Supplements
There are a number of herbal supplements that can cause problems during surgery, if taken within two weeks of the procedure.
These include:
- Large Doses of Vitamin E
- Ginko Biloba
- Garlic
- Ginger
- St. John’s Wort
- Ginseng
- Fish Oil
- Ephedra
Always ask your surgeon if you are unsure of the safety of a given supplement. It is probably best to limit yourself to a multivitamin in the weeks leading up to the procedure.
Don’t worry overly much about garlic and ginger in food—you’d have to eat a great deal to put yourself in jeopardy. That said, it never hurts to check with your surgeon if you have concerns.
No Smoking, No Exceptions
Smoking is not only terrible for your overall health, it can be extremely dangerous and detrimental when it comes to surgical procedures.
Smoking can cause dangerous complications and compromise the results of a SmartlipoTM treatment in a myriad ways.
Cigarettes contain harmful chemicals and constrict the blood vessels, which inhibits healing. Risk of complications increases greatly when cigarettes are in the mix.
Cut Out the Alcohol
Like some medications, alcohol can also cause complications with anesthesia and blood clotting. You should not drink for about a week before and after surgery to be safe.
Diet Pills & Certain Medications
No matter how minor a medication may seem, it can have real repercussions on the surgical and healing process. Over-the-counter medications like aspirin, ibuprofen, cold medication, and others are not allowed, though acetaminophen-based drugs may be permitted, as they do not influence blood clotting.
Diet pills can cause anesthesia problems and should be discontinued a few weeks before surgery. Some prescription drugs must also be suspended if possible.
If it is not possible to stop taking a prescription drug before laser liposuction, you may not be eligible for the treatment. Your surgeon will give you detailed instructions on allowed and prohibited medications, and it is important to be honest about all of the drugs you take, for safety’s sake.
Choose a Knowledgeable Plastic Surgeon in New York
Since your cosmetic surgeon will be providing you with so much vital information, it is important to choose a qualified and experienced SmartlipoTM expert.
Our New York plastic surgeons have advanced qualifications—double board certification and extensive experience.
For more information about laser lipo in NY with our specialists, call our Long Island or NYC offices today to schedule your free consultation.
SmartlipoTM is a trademark of Cynosure, Inc.
Sources:
http://www.webmd.com/news/20090416/surgery-patients-unaware-of-herbal-risk