Liposuction

Liposuction surgery may be considered to treat areas of excess fat in the stomach, buttocks, hips, love handles, saddlebags, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts (including male breast enlargement), back, arms and neck. Liposuction is equally effective in both men and women.

How Liposuction Surgery is Performed

The basic technique of liposuction involves the removal of fat via a hollow metal tube (cannula) that is passed through the fatty tissue. One of the most common types of liposuction involves the aspiration of fat by attaching a pump that generates a vacuum. This is known as suction assisted liposuction (SAL). In addition, a motor may be used on the cannula that causes the cannula to vacillate back and forth, thus performing much of the "work" of liposuction know as power assisted liposuction (PAL). An ultrasonic generator may produce sound waves above audible frequency that "breaks" the fat cells and the broken down fat is removed by SAL. A laser can also be employed to break down the fat cells. Each of the methods has advantages and disadvantages. These methods will be discussed with you at the time of the consultation. Additionally, the above techniques may be combined to yield optimal results.

Understanding the Risks of Liposuction

Fortunately, significant complications from liposuction surgery are infrequent. Liposuction surgery is one of the two most common procedures performed by plastic surgeons. Most often this surgery is performed without experiencing any major problem.

The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis with you when you visit us during your consultation and at your preoperative appointment. The risks in most surgeries are similar. Some of the potential complications that may be discussed with you include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal), infection, changes in sensation, scarring, allergic reactions, damage to underlying structures, need for revisions, unsatisfactory results possibly necessitating additional procedures and medical risks. Other risks more specific to liposuction may include indentations and irregularities.

You can help minimize certain risks by following the advice and instructions we provide, both before and after your liposuction surgery.

Your Liposuction Surgical Experience (Preoperative Preparation and Recovery)

Pre-Operative

Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible.

If you are a smoker, it is recommended to stop smoking well in advance of surgery since smoking can impair the healing process. Certain medications that increase the risk of bleeding such as Aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications, and some vitamins/homeopathic regimens should be discontinued before undergoing liposuction surgery. We will provide you with additional preoperative instructions.

Liposuction surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. Be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery and to stay with you for the next 24 hours.

The Day of Liposuction Surgery

Your abdominoplasty may be performed at our AAAASF fully accredited surgical outpatient facility.

Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. Frequently, local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used for patients undergoing liposuction surgery, although general anesthesia may be desirable in some instances. For your safety during the operation, various monitors are used to check your heart, blood pressure, pulse and the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood.

When surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. You will most likely be wearing a compression garment, usually used to help “shrink' the skin. Concerning postoperative pain, many patients state that the area feels sore, as if they underwent a vigorous work out.

You probably will be permitted to go home after a short period of observation.

Recovery from Liposuction Surgery

It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies greatly among individuals.

The first few days after surgery, you should rest quietly. If you can elevate the body part, it is usually suggested that you do so. Remember, you must not take Aspirin or certain anti-inflammatory medications. You most likely will wear a garment. If it is too tight, you should promptly notify your surgeon.

During the first 48 hours following surgery, patients experience varying degrees of swelling and bruising. The swelling persists longer. Although the vast majority of patients will have virtually no bruising, some patients will have bruising. Bruising typically disappears within 7 to 10 days. Stitches are usually removed within a week of surgery.

Straining, bending over and lifting should be avoided during the early postoperative period. In many instances, you will be able to resume most of your normal activities within 10 days or less.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a good candidate for liposuction?

Any one or combination of the following conditions may indicate that you are a good candidate for liposuction surgery:

• Areas of fat deposits that are out of proportion with the rest of your body and do not go away with diet and exercise - so called “diet resistant fat.'
• Areas with minimal amounts of excess skin (liposuction removes fat not skin) and good skin elasticity.

What results can I expect?

Liposuction surgery usually improves contours. In some instances it may be used in a circumferential fashion, thinning an area. Since the healing process is gradual, you should expect to wait at least several months to get an accurate picture of the results of your surgery. The small incisions used for access of the instrument - known as a cannula - will fade over a number of months usually becoming barely visible.

The results of liposuction surgery are usually long lasting, but they may be affected by weight gain, aging, pregnancy and lifestyle factors.

How will I be evaluated for liposuction surgery?

During the initial consultation, you may be asked to look in a mirror and point out exactly what you would like to see improved. Pictures may be taken of you especially if the areas that will be treated are on your posterior (back, buttock, etc.). This will help your plastic surgeon to understand your expectations and determine whether they can realistically be achieved. A determination of the elasticity of the skin will also occur.

A discussion concerning your ideal weight and realistic weight will most likely occur. Plans such as future pregnancies, may be discussed.
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history, including previous surgeries, past and present medical conditions, allergies and current medications. It is important for you to provide complete information. High blood pressure, thyroid problems, diabetes and other medical conditions should be reviewed as these conditions may increase some risks associated with surgery.

How much will liposuction cost?

Cost is always a consideration in elective surgery. Prices for liposuction in our facility vary depending on the amount of tissue planned to be removed, and the expected time that will be spent in the operative room. You may call us for a general range if you know what areas you think will require liposuction. A final written cost estimate will be presented to you at your free consultation.

Although the fees cover the costs of several components, we will provide you a comprehensive fee noting which items are excluded:

• Surgeon's professional fee
• Facility fee
• Anesthesia fee
• Medications
• Surgical garments
• Medical tests 

Maintaining a Relationship with Your Plastic Surgeon after Liposuction

You will return to our office for follow-up care at prescribed intervals, at which time your progress will be evaluated as a result of your liposuction surgery.

Please remember that our relationship with you does not end when you leave the operating room. If you have questions or concerns during your recovery, or need additional information at a later time, you should contact us by phone or email.

See examples of liposuction in our Photo Gallery.

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