Preventing infection is crucial during liposuction recovery. A safe and successful recovery involves careful measures to reduce infection risks, which is a key part of post-operative care. At the Downsize! Lipo Center of Houston, we focus on delivering high-quality liposuction while prioritizing patient safety. Our approach combines advanced surgical methods with strict post-operative procedures to protect our patients, emphasizing infection prevention throughout their recovery.
Understanding the Risk of Infection After Liposuction
Liposuction causes tissue trauma, increasing the chance of infection from bacteria during and after the procedure. Factors like incision size, cleanliness, and your immune system influence this risk. Early detection of infection signs is crucial for prompt treatment.
Signs and Symptoms of Infection
During the recovery period, it is vital for patients to monitor for any changes that could indicate an infection. Key symptoms to watch out for include:
- Increased redness or swelling around incisions
- Unusual pain, unresponsive to medication
- Discharge or unpleasant odor
- Fever (above 100.4°F)
- Chills and sweats
Preventing Infection: A Team Effort
At Downsize! Lipo Center, your health after liposuction is our top priority. Here’s how we work together to minimize infection risk:
Before Surgery:
- Use Hibiclens as instructed by your Dr. Hennessy.
- Quit smoking at least 4 weeks beforehand.
After Surgery:
- Keep incisions clean and dry (avoid baths/pools for now).
- Don’t touch wounds with unwashed hands.
- Resist scratching and take antibiotics as prescribed by your doctor.
- We’ll advise on proper hair removal in the treated area.
Importance of Patient Education and Communication
Downsize! Lipo Center of Houston emphasizes the importance of open communication between our patients and the surgical team. We encourage all patients to express any concerns or questions they may have about infection prevention. By providing comprehensive educational materials and resources, we empower our patients to take an active role in their recovery and well-being. Through education, patients are better prepared to manage their post-operative care for liposuction effectively and alert their healthcare providers about any potential issues promptly.
Downsize! Your Partner in Liposuction
At Downsize! Lipo Center of Houston, we are committed to providing exceptional care and support throughout your liposuction journey. Dr. Hennessy and the team are ready to assist you with any questions or concerns you may have about our procedures or your recovery process.
Red Flag symptoms include:
- Fever (Temperature greater than 101 degrees).
- Greenish discharge (from wound) (s).
- Increasing Pain, Redness with swelling of a wound site, increased warmth of the skin near a wound. An odor from the wound and/or a prolonged lack of energy.
Prevention:
- Use Hibliclens prior to Liposuction. Stop smoking for 4 weeks prior.
- Avoid shaving area scheduled for treatment.
- Keep incisions clean and dry (avoid soaking in a bath tub, swimming in a pool).
- Avoid touching open wounds with your bare hands.
- Do not scratch your wounds and take your antibiotic as instructed by Dr. Hennessy.