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Body sculpting can be a transformative investment in your confidence, appearance, and sense of self. At Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, double board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Nick Slenkovich is committed to helping patients achieve stunning, natural-looking results, and to helping those results last. He does this through personalized treatment plans and thoughtful post-procedure care. Whether you opted for liposuction, tummy tuck, body lift, or another contouring procedure, long-term success starts with the choices you make after surgery.

Here’s what you need to know to protect and prolong your sculpted shape for years to come.

Start with Strong Pre-Procedure Preparation

Your long-term results begin well before you step into the operating room. Following all pre-procedural instructions provided by our team is essential to ensure a safe surgery and optimal outcome. These steps are carefully designed to prepare your body for the procedure and set you up for successful healing.

Key components of pre-surgical preparation include:

  • Consistent Nutrition: Just like after your procedure, a diet rich in whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables is crucial in the weeks leading up to surgery. These nutrients support immune function and tissue repair.
  • Regular Exercise: Staying active before surgery promotes better circulation, boosts overall wellness, and helps your body handle recovery more efficiently.
  • Avoiding Nicotine and Marijuana: We strongly advise avoiding all nicotine and marijuana products well before your surgery, as these substances can significantly impair healing and increase surgical risks.
  • Medication Management: Our team will provide detailed guidance on medications to stop taking prior to your procedure. This may include certain prescriptions or over-the-counter supplements that could interfere with anesthesia or increase bleeding risk.

By fully committing to your pre-procedure plan, you’ll lay the groundwork for the best possible surgical outcome and a smoother recovery experience.

Follow Your Post-Procedure Instructions Closely

One of the most important ways to preserve your results begins immediately after surgery. Dr. Slenkovich provides detailed recovery guidelines designed to reduce swelling, promote optimal healing, and support your new contours. Wearing compression garments as advised, maintaining proper nutrition, particularly by maximizing protein and minimizing sodium intake, attending follow-up appointments, adhering to our perioperative lymphatic therapy treatment regimen, and avoiding strenuous activity for the recommended time frame all play a vital role in how well your results develop.

Commit to a Healthy, Balanced Lifestyle

While surgery can redefine your shape, maintaining that transformation is a daily commitment. Long-term results depend on a lifestyle that supports your new contours:

  • Consistent Nutrition: Prioritize whole foods, lean proteins, healthy fats, and vegetables to fuel your body and keep your weight stable. Minimize your sodium intake.
  • Regular Physical Activity: Build a fitness routine that includes strength training and cardio to keep your body strong and sculpted.
  • Hydration and Sleep: Proper hydration and quality rest keep your metabolism and recovery on track, supporting your continued success.

Avoid Weight Gain and Drastic Changes

Although sculpted areas may resist future fat accumulation, untreated areas can still change with weight gain. Preserve your shape by staying intentional:

  • Track your weight regularly to stay ahead of any changes
  • Limit processed foods, added sugars, and alcohol
  • Consider professional support like a nutritionist or personal trainer if needed

The timing of a body contouring procedure is also an important factor in long-term success. For patients who are on a weight loss journey, we recommend reaching and maintaining your goal weight before undergoing surgery. Significant weight changes after your procedure can impact your results. Additionally, pregnancy can affect the outcome of certain body contouring procedures, so family planning is another important consideration when determining the right time for surgery.

Sustaining your transformation isn’t about perfection—it’s about consistency and choosing habits that align with your new confidence.

Stay in Touch with Your Surgeon

Building an ongoing relationship with your surgeon is key to long-term success. Dr. Slenkovich values continued care and encourages patients to check in over time. Whether you’re curious about small enhancements, non-surgical add-ons, or just want professional input on your evolving goals, we’re here to support your transformation.

Consider Complementary Non-Surgical Treatments

If you’re looking to refine or refresh your appearance as time goes on, treatments such as skin tightening, lasers, or muscle-toning therapies can help. These solutions extend your results and offer a natural boost, especially as your body changes with age or activity level.

Our team stays current on the most advanced non-surgical options available, so your treatment plan can grow with you.

Choose Experts Committed to Your Lasting Transformation

At Colorado Plastic Surgery Center, we believe that aesthetic transformation is more than a procedure—it's a partnership rooted in trust, education, and ongoing support. Dr. Nick Slenkovich brings decades of experience, meticulous technique, and a compassionate, patient-first philosophy to every interaction. If you're ready to take the next step in your self-improvement journey or want guidance on sustaining your results, we invite you to schedule a consultation. We're honored to be part of your continued transformation.


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Nick Slenkovich

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If you are considering cosmetic surgery to improve your physical appearance and self-image, we invite you to schedule a consultation with our double board-certified Denver plastic surgeon, Dr. Nick Slenkovich. Dedicated to your comfort from your first visit to your final follow-up, the surgeon and staff of Colorado Plastic Surgery Center will always treat you with kindness and caring.

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All content on this page was reviewed by Healthcare Chief Operating Officer Stephanie Cooper, MBA, MHA

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