Preoperative Assessment and Preparation for High-Definition Body Sculpting

Abstract

More than any other form of body contouring surgery, high-definition lipoplasty requires a special collaboration between the surgeon and the patient. The unique nature of the advanced lipoplasty techniques, including the extent of contouring, superficial fat removal, and creation of sculpted irregularities, requires that the patient understands every aspect of the procedure so that informed decisions can be made. From the initial consultation, the patient-doctor relationship develops and is central to success in high-definition body sculpting. The patient learns what the procedure entails, suitability, preoperative and postoperative care, and all the potential side effects and complications associated with the procedure. One of the keys to success is for the surgeon to determine expectations and then set realistic ones based on the patient’s physical condition. Since body dysmorphic disorder occurs in 7–15 % of patients seeking cosmetic surgery, some patients will not be satisfied regardless of how successful the surgeon believes the procedure to be. These patients must be identified and excluded from treatment. On the other hand, patients who may previously have been refused traditional liposuction based on a paucity of fatty tissue may benefit greatly from high-definition ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty. These patients typically desire an athletic, toned, or muscular appearance and already exercise regularly and are extremely motivated. Patient wishes are determined during an initial consultation.