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How you prepare

By Mayo Clinic staff

Before the procedure, discuss your medical history and what to expect from the surgery with your doctor. Tell your doctor about any medications, supplements or herbs you're taking and any medical conditions you have, as these may affect the success of your procedure.

If your procedure requires the removal of only a small amount of fat, the surgery can often take place in an office setting, after which you can go home. If a large amount of fat needs to be removed — or if you plan to have other procedures done at the same time — the surgery may take place in a hospital, followed by an overnight stay.

When you arrive for surgery, you may be asked to change into a dressing gown and have photographs taken of the areas the surgeon will work on — so that before-and-after photos are later available. Before surgery, the doctor may mark circles and lines on the areas of your body to undergo liposuction.

MY00079

Aug. 8, 2008

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