40 Y.o. Lipo of Outer Thighs, Hips, Flanks and Waist - Seattle, WA

Feeling depressed. I just compared my pre-op photos to my 1 week post op and aside from my waist being smaller, my thighs look exactly the same and it was my thighs that bothered me the most. I don't even want to post my 1 week post op photos cuz I feel embarrassed that I look the same. I'm trying to stay focused on the fact that everyone says that results aren't really seen until week 4-6 but that isn't as easy as it seems.

Feeling better each day. I think day 2 was the worst but I woke up today able to move easier and faster. Still tender to the touch but tolerable. I don't see a difference yet but my Dr told me not to expect anything for a couple weeks and the swelling with go up and down for up to 6 weeks to 6 months. I'm hoping to see improvements by week 2 based on other post op pics I've seen.

Back story: very athletic woman who just couldn't seem to get rid of the extra fat on my thighs and hips. One doctor even said that my legs, from my hips to my knees, look like they were from another body. I workout 3-4 times a week and eat moderately well (75% clean but I love pizza).

Dr consult experience: I visited 3 separate doctors (all at no charge) and I am so glad bc I ended up going with the last surgeon who ONLY does liposuction. The first two doctors were very nice but gave widely varying opinions hence the third consult. Make sure and research questions to ask. My main concern was risk for worsening cellulite, loose skin and if I could get a natural but noticeable difference. All 3 doctors advised against doing lipo on the back of the legs bc it can disrupt the fat pillar that holds up the butt. That was a slight bummer bc I have a little banana roll that I wanted sucked out. Hopefully I can tone it up with weight training.

Surgery prep: there are various prep requirements but my doctor was mostly concerned with no OTC meds that thinned the blood, no alcohol and no ibuprofen for a minimum of 10 days. I had IV sedation for the procedure so I had to fast for 9 hours. Very easy. Oh, and usually there are a few prescriptions that you will need to fill one day before your surgery. Also, buy absorbent pads for your bed. I got doggie pee pads in extra large which worked great. I also got a waterproof mattress pad but I don't think it was necessary.

Surgery day: missed my coffee the most which gave me a small headache but tolerable. They told me to wear dark clothing that was loose fitting with flat shoes. I'm glad I followed their instructions bc the fluid they pump into you for the procedure seeps out from the incisions and its cranberry colored. I woke up from the sedation really easily (no nausea and moderately awake). I opted for the "surgical grade" Arnica to help with swelling and bruising. I'll update later on whether it seemed to make a difference. Not a big investment as it was only $40. I took only 2 Tylenol and that controlled any discomfort.

I will update after my shower and removal of my compression garment.