Your Pre-Op Appointment for Lipedema Reduction Surgery

Preparing for Lipedema Reduction Surgery is about more than marking a date on the calendar; it’s about ensuring you are physically ready, mentally informed, and completely supported. At Lipedema Surgical Solutions, your pre-operative appointment is a crucial part of our comprehensive care process. This visit lays the groundwork for a safe and successful surgery and recovery, tailored to your individual needs.

Whether this is your first procedure or part of a multi-stage treatment plan, your pre-op appointment provides a clear roadmap of what to expect before, during, and after surgery. We’ll walk you through every detail so you feel informed, confident, and empowered.

Meet Your Surgical Care Team

Your pre-operative visit includes one-on-one time with both a surgical nurse and Dr. Thomas Wright, our expert surgeon specializing in lipedema care. This meeting ensures you understand the surgical plan, feel comfortable with the process, and have the opportunity to ask any questions that may be on your mind.

Our team is dedicated to delivering compassionate, personalized care. This is your time to connect, clarify, and gain full confidence before moving forward.

What Happens at Your Pre-Op Appointment

This appointment is typically scheduled one to two weeks prior to your surgery date and lasts approximately one hour. During this time, we will complete several important assessments, prepare you medically, and provide personalized instructions to help you prepare for a smooth procedure and recovery.

1. Vitals, Measurements, and Imaging

To establish an accurate clinical baseline and track your transformation, we will:

• Record your weight and body composition using an InBody scan, which offers detailed insight into fat, muscle, and fluid levels.
• Take circumferential measurements of the area(s) to be treated.
• Capture pre-operative photographs for your medical record. These images help us document results and track changes after surgery.
• In some cases, surgical markings will be completed at this appointment to guide the procedure.

These records are a vital part of your medical file and allow for the most precise, effective surgical plan.

2. Medication Review and Prescription Planning

Medications play a key role in ensuring your safety and comfort. During your pre-op visit, we’ll thoroughly review all current medications, supplements, and over-the-counter products you are taking. You’ll receive clear guidance on what to stop and when.

Important topics include:

• Discontinuing NSAIDs, blood thinners, and certain supplements (like fish oil or vitamin E) at least one week prior to surgery to reduce bleeding risk.
• Instructions for any medications you’ll continue through surgery day.
• A review of the medications prescribed specifically for your surgery.

These may include:

• Antibiotics (2 types):
  • One antibiotic is designed to prevent infection.
  • A second antibiotic is prescribed to assist your body in metabolizing lidocaine (a key component of local anesthesia) more efficiently.
    
• Ativan (lorazepam):
  • Taken before the procedure to reduce anxiety and promote calmness.
    
• Zofran (ondansetron):
  • Used to prevent or relieve nausea before or after surgery.
    
• Tramadol:
  • An optional post-op pain medication is prescribed if needed. Many patients find that Tylenol alone is sufficient for managing discomfort.
    

You will be given a medication checklist and instructions so that you know exactly when and how to take each medication.

3. Education and Recovery Guidance

Your surgical nurse will provide a step-by-step overview of the entire surgical experience, from what happens in the operating room to what you can expect during the healing process.

This includes:

• Day-of-surgery expectations: Arrival time, preparation steps, and discharge process.
• Compression garment instructions: How to wear, wash, and manage your garments, which are essential for reducing swelling and supporting lymphatic flow.
• Post-operative care plan: How to manage drainage, mobility, pain, and hygiene after surgery.
• Recovery timeline: When you can expect to resume light activity, work, or travel.
• Signs of healing vs. warning signs: What’s normal and what may require a call to our office.

All of this information will be provided to you in both printed and digital formats, allowing you to review it at your own pace and refer back to it as needed.

4. Medical Exam by Dr. Wright

As part of your surgical clearance, Dr. Wright will conduct a focused physical exam to ensure you’re healthy and medically ready for the procedure. This includes:

• Listening to your heart and lungs
• Reviewing your medical history and recent labs, if applicable
• Finalizing the surgical plan and answering any last-minute questions

This is also your opportunity to confirm the treatment areas, ask about staging (if you’re undergoing multiple procedures), and ensure all details are in place for a successful outcome.

What You Should Bring

To help us prepare the safest and most effective surgical experience for you, please bring:

• A list of all medications and supplements you are currently taking
• Any allergy information, especially related to medications or anesthesia
• Your compression garments if they’ve already arrived, so we can confirm proper fit
• A written list of questions or concerns, if you have them (this is your time to ask anything!)

Your Pre-Op Appointment Sets the Foundation for Success

Lipedema Reduction Surgery is a transformative process, and your pre-operative appointment is an essential part of that transformation. This visit ensures we are fully aligned in expectations, timing, and medical readiness—and that you feel empowered and cared for every step of the way. We want you to leave your pre-op appointment with peace of mind, knowing you’re in expert hands and fully prepared for what comes next.

If you’re ever unsure about something—even after your visit—our team is only a phone call or email away. You are not alone in this process. We are your partners in care.

Ready to Take the Next Step?

Once your pre-op appointment is complete, you’re on the home stretch to surgery day. If you haven’t scheduled your procedure or still have questions about what the process entails, contact our office today. We’re here to guide, inform, and support you through every stage of your lipedema journey.

Read More: What to Expect from Lipedema Reduction Surgery