Liposuction
Liposuction removes deposits of excess fat, creating a more pleasing contour. It can be used to slim hips and thighs, flatten tummies, remove love handles and improve double chins, and can be used in many other areas. Liposuction can be performed under a local anesthetic with IV sedation or under a general anesthetic and is frequently combined with other procedures.
Reasons to Consider Liposuction
- Desire for a smoother, more proportional figure.
- Target specific fat deposits in many areas of the body.
View a video for this procedure.
Click here to view Liposuction before and after examples.
Liposuction FAQ
1. What areas can be treated with Liposuction?
Common treatment areas include:
- Chin and Neckline
- Back
- Upper Arms
- Stomach and Waistline
- Hips and Buttocks
- Thighs and Knees
- Calves and Ankles
2. How will my Plastic Surgery Group surgeon evaluate me for liposuction?
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions you may have, such as diabetes, high blood pressure or heart disease. Your surgeon will want to know about previous surgeries, medical treatments and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.
How much you currently weigh and whether you plan to lose or gain weight in the future will be factors in evaluating you for liposuction. Your surgeon may ask you about the effects of prior weight loss on the appearance of those areas which you have indicated for contouring. He will assess the elasticity of your skin and estimate the amount of fat to be removed for optimal results.
3. What will the day of surgery be like?
Medications are administered for your comfort during the surgical procedure. You and your surgeon will have decided in advance whether intravenous sedation or general anesthesia will be used. 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. There may be some discomfort, but this can be controlled by medication that you may continue taking at home. A compressive dressing such as an elasticized bandage, sponge or specially designed garment may have been placed over the areas that were suctioned. Your surgeon will tell you how long you should wear the garment and will instruct you on how to remove it so that you may shower or bathe.
You most likely will be permitted to go home after a few hours, although some patients may stay overnight in the hospital or surgical facility.
4. When can I resume my normal activities?
You may be able to return to work in just a few days. In many instances, you can resume most of your normal activities within one or two weeks and begin some form of exercise soon after. The timing of your recovery depends largely on the extent of your surgery.
5. How long will the results last?
The results of liposuction will be permanent, as long as you maintain your post-operative weight. Even if you gain a few extra pounds, you may find that the weight is distributed more evenly instead of accumulating in the areas that were problematic for you in the past.
Occasionally, a touchup may be desired to further improve an area that has been suctioned. The additional treatment will require a return to the operating room.