Q & A
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 slight pressure. 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. You will not feel us make the incisions as we use lidocaine to numb the area.
Q: Why should I choose Dr. Kulkin to do my procedure?
A: Dr. Kulkin has used lasers for over 20 years and understands how to use them in surgical procedures. He has worked with the pioneers in Smartlipo who have trained him personally in the newest techniques of liposuction and skin tightening. It is important to know that there are several Smartlipo machines but only one (MPX) has the ability to tighten skin and this is the machine used at WIFH. In addition, he is personally available by cell phone after your procedure to assist with you with any questions or problems. We think you'll understand why our Smartlipo program has become so popular when you come for your complementary consultation.
Q: Where is the procedure done?
A: Your Smartlipo procedure will be performed in our Alpharetta office, in our own operating room. We use full sterile technique and have a large flat screen monitor to show us your before photo as we sculpt your problem areas.
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.
If we are treating your thighs, we recommend you wear Spanx that come below the knee. This area tends to remain sore longer with the most common complaint being soreness with sitting down. When you see the change in thigh shape however, it is quite rewarding.
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.
Q: When will I notice the results?
A: Immediately, but we do not take after photos for 3 months. Of course you will have swelling in different areas but the change in your clothing will be noticeable right away.
Q: Is Smartlipo better than traditional liposuction?
A: While there is debate on this issue in the medical literature, we believe it is much better. Smartlipo melts the fat into a fluid before we suction it out. As a result we are able to do a more thorough job of getting more fat melted which allows us to focus on the problem areas and see a bigger change during the procedure. There is also less trauma to your skin as we use a gentler technique to suction and instruments that a so small they cause less bruising. It is quite amazing and rewarding to watch our patients walk out of the office after a 2-3 hour procedure feeling as well as they do!
Contact our Patient Concierge 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.
