How to Prepare for Body Contouring

Body contouring refers to a set of body plastic surgery procedures designed to tighten loose skin and tissues for a slimmer and more attractive post-weight loss figure. When planned and performed by an experienced and skilled plastic surgeon, body contouring can truly transform the way you look and feel after losing a substantial amount of weight.

In this blog post, Dr. Carlos Chaco of Divino Plastic Surgery shares what you need to know about preparing for body contouring.

Stable Weight Is Key

Ideal candidates for body contouring are individuals who are at or near a healthy weight. Not only do significant weight fluctuations possibly affect the beauty of your results, they also increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. You should have body contouring only after you have reached or are near your target weight and have maintained this weight for several months.

Establish Healthy Habits

Recovering from body contouring takes time and adjustment. Establishing healthy habits before surgery can make the recovery period easier. For instance, if you are already eating healthily before surgery, you will be in a great position to recover more quickly. In addition, if you smoke, you will need stop a few weeks prior to surgery to avoid complications and impaired healing. Limiting alcohol is also a good way to promote a speedy recovery.

Have a Good Support System in Place

Having support from your loved ones before and after body contouring is critical. Loved ones can help you prepare your home for recovery, which makes the preparation process much less stressful. In addition, you will need to have someone drive you to and from surgery and stay with you for the first 24 hours of recovery. You should also consider asking a loved one to stay with you for the first one to two weeks after surgery so they can help with child and pet care, errands and chores while you focus on relaxing and healing.

Focus On the End Goal

Much like losing a large amount of weight in the first place, seeing your end results with body contouring will take time. In fact, it may take up to a full year for residual swelling to disappear and your final results to stabilize. Keeping a positive mindset and focusing on the end results can help you remain calm and relaxed as you prepare for body contouring and as you recover. Doing this helps promote healthy healing.

To discuss your body contouring options, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Chacon. Contact Divino Plastic Surgery by calling (858) 633-7546 today.