How It Works:
Submental Liposuction, using Precision Tx technology equipment by Cynosure, is a minimally invasive surgical procedure. Precision Tx uses laser technology to tighten, smooth and tone the lower face and neck area. It also reduces wrinkles, sagging and other signs of aging without cutting or removing any skin, and can be done under local anesthesia in about an hour. Precision Tx Laser is one of the latest technological advancements in cosmetic medicine, and can deliver vast improvements and amazing results in a low-risk manner – hence the name, SmartLipo.
What To Expect:
Three tiny incision sites are made and a local anesthetic is administered to the treatment area, ensuring the patient’s comfort throughout the procedure. Once the patient is sufficiently numbed, a fibre optic cable the size of a small needle is then inserted. The heating effect of the laser causes the tissue to coagulate, leading to an instant tightening of the skin, as well as in the underlying tissue. The heat of the laser cauterizes the tissue, reducing bleeding and bruising, and results in quicker healing for the patient. Patients are expected to keep a foam compression wrap applied for 3-5 days after the procedure.
Prior to Your Treatment:
- Please read all instructions given to you on our “Pre-Operative Sheet for All Surgery”.
- Pick up any prescriptions that we have sent to your pharmacy. Bring them with you on the day of your procedure.
- Have somebody ready to pick you up after your procedure and supervise you for the first 24 hours.
Post Treatment Instructions:
- Keep your head elevated at least 15 degrees (on one pillow) at all times. The head should be above your heart at all times to reduce swelling. Placing pillows under the mattress can help ensure your back and head are elevated. Sleeping in a recliner can help as well.
- Be careful when getting in and out of bed and when using the restroom. Getting up too suddenly can cause changes in your blood pressure, accidental falls, and changes in consciousness.
- Swelling, bruising, some level of discomfort are expected after surgery. The intensity and duration of these side effects depend on your surgical history as well as individual healing characteristics.
- Wear your large white dressing for 24 hours, then remove – leaving the white tape that is on your chin (this stays on for 4 days). Clean with a gentle cleanser 2-3x/day. Use the ACE wrap (brown) that was given to you to keep your head wrapped for 7 days, taking off only to clean.
- Supporting your face and chin with a wrap is extremely important in order to obtain optimal results. The wrap will support healing, protect the face and ears from undue stress, and reduce the risk of post surgical complications.
- Use a cold compress on the exposed areas of your face to help reduce swelling and discomfort.
- Take all medications as directed.
- Be sure to finish your full course of antibiotics.
- Pain medication can be taken on an as-need basis.
- We recommend switching to Tylenol Extra Strength whenever possible.
- Under NO circumstance should you take any medicines containing aspirin, motrin, ibuprofen or aleve (NSAIDS). These are blood thinners and can increase the risk of complications.
- When showering, do NOT apply direct water pressure to your face.
- We recommend using only gentle shower products and to turn your back to the shower head to avoid direct water pressure to your face. If you have a detachable shower head, it may help make showering easier.
- Avoid all baths at this time, as it can increase your exposure to bacteria and infection.
- Try to limit turning your head from side to side.
- Instead, move your shoulders and head as one unit (as though you have a stiff neck). Do not move your neck from side to side (ear to shoulder) to avoid any stress to your incisions. After 2 weeks, you should be able to turn your head normally.
- Be careful not to bump your face and neck
- No exercise or strenuous activity for at least 2 weeks after your procedure. Also avoid bending at the hip or lifting more than 10 lbs during this time.
- Avoid straining during bowel movements.
- Pain medications and lack of movement can cause constipation. You may use OTC stool softener to relieve symptoms.
- It is very important that you use sunscreen to prevent sun damage to the skin. Sunscreen should offer broad spectrum protection (UVA/UVB), have a sun protection factor (SPF) of 50 or more, and be used daily. If direct sun exposure is necessary, wear a hat and clothing that covers the treated area. Diligent sun protection and sunscreen use may lower the risk of post surgical hyperpigmentation. You can begin wearing a gentle physical sunscreen about 3 days after your surgery. We recommend SkinBetter or Skinceuticals (both available at our office).
Wound Care:
- Immediately after surgery, you will have a wrap bandage. You are expected to wear this wrap for 3-5 days, as instructed by Dr. Madnani. Please try your best to avoid getting your bandage wet.
- If any sutures need to be removed, they will be removed on the 7th postoperative day during your office visit.
- Once your dressing has been removed, please clean your incisions 2x daily with warm water & gentle cleanser, e.g. Cetaphil Gentle Skin Cleanser.
- After cleaning, apply a thin layer of your prescribed antibiotic ointment.
- Follow with another layer of Aquaphor healing ointment on top.
- Do not pull on the area for at least 2-3 weeks post-op. Doing so can cause stress and injury to the area.
- If you have a beard, it is important to take caution when shaving around the incision area after the procedure. We recommend waiting at least 1 week before shaving, or when tenderness subsides.
- Silicone scar gel can be used 2-3 weeks after your procedure to minimize the appearance of any scars. Dr Madnani suggests his scargel (www.purehealplus.com) or you can purchase any silicone-based scar gel of your choice.
- Contact the office if you notice any signs of infection:
- Pus-like drainage
- Increasing redness to incisions
- Increased warmth at the treated area
- Fever 100.5 F or greater
- Sever pain that is unresponsive to over-the-counter pain relievers
- Please try to be patient during the healing process! The results will be worth the wait.
