Final preparations for your liposuction surgery. What to do in the 24 hours before your procedure and what to expect on the day.
Final Preparations
The day before surgery is about getting everything in order so you can focus entirely on your recovery afterwards.
The Night Before
Confirm your arrival time - make sure you know when and where to arrive
Prepare your hospital bag - include loose, comfortable clothing, slip-on shoes, and any required paperwork
Remove all jewellery and piercings - including any that are difficult to remove
Take off nail polish and remove false nails - medical staff need to see your natural nail beds
Shower and wash your hair - use antibacterial soap if provided
Get a good night's sleep - go to bed early to ensure you're well-rested
Critical: Fasting Requirements
Do not eat or drink anything (including water, chewing gum, or mints) for at least 6 hours before your surgery time. Your anaesthetist will provide specific fasting instructions - follow them exactly. This is essential for your safety during anaesthesia.
What to Bring
Pack these items to bring with you on surgery day:
Essential Documents
Photo ID (passport or driving licence)
Insurance details if applicable
List of current medications and allergies
Emergency contact information
Clothing and Personal Items
Very loose, comfortable clothing - elastic waist trousers, button-up shirt or zip-up hoodie
Slip-on shoes - bending over will be uncomfortable
Dressing gown for walking around the ward before discharge
Phone and charger
Small amount of cash for parking or incidentals
Pro Tip
Wear your loosest, most comfortable clothing to the hospital. You'll be leaving in a compression garment underneath your clothes, and everything will feel tight. Button-up or zip-up tops are ideal as you won't need to pull anything over your head.
What NOT to Bring
Jewellery or valuables
Contact lenses (bring glasses instead)
Makeup, lotions, or perfume
Food or drinks
Mental Preparation
It's completely normal to feel nervous or anxious the night before surgery. Here are some strategies that can help:
Visualise your results - think about why you chose to have this procedure and what you're looking forward to
Avoid doom-scrolling - stay off online forums and horror stories. Every patient is different.
Trust your surgeon - you've chosen an experienced professional. Focus on that.
Prepare your space - having everything ready at home can ease anxiety
Accept nervousness is normal - anxiety before surgery is completely expected and doesn't mean anything is wrong
On the Day
Before You Leave Home
Remove all makeup completely
Brush your teeth (but don't swallow any water)
Don't apply any lotions, creams, or deodorant
Wear loose, comfortable clothing and slip-on shoes
Leave valuables at home
At the Hospital
Arrive on time - usually 1-2 hours before your scheduled surgery time
Bring your companion who will drive you home
You'll meet with your surgeon who will mark the treatment areas
The anaesthetist will review your medical history
You'll be asked to change into a surgical gown
Staff will insert an IV line and prepare you for theatre
What Happens During Surgery
While you're under general anaesthesia:
Small incisions are made in discreet locations
Tumescent fluid is injected to minimise bleeding and aid fat removal
A thin cannula removes excess fat using suction
Incisions are closed and compression garments are applied
The procedure typically takes 1-3 hours depending on the areas treated
After Surgery
You'll wake up in the recovery room wearing your compression garment. You may feel:
Drowsy and disoriented from anaesthesia
Nauseous (anti-nausea medication will be available)
Soreness and tightness in the treated areas
Cold - extra blankets will be provided
Once you're fully awake and stable, you'll be discharged home with your companion. Most patients go home the same day.