Overview

Liposuction is no longer a choice of last resort when it comes to ways to lose body fat. On the contrary, liposuction now is the most popular procedure plastic surgeons perform. Recent improvements in the techniques of liposuction enable the doctor to remove more fat with far less discomfort, bruising and blood loss than previously possible. This translates into a much safer, more comfortable procedure with faster healing and less recovery time for the patient.

What areas of the body can be Liposuctioned?

Liposuction is best indicated for people of normal (or near normal) weight who have unsightly fatty deposits that are resistant to diet or exercise, such as love handles or tummy bulges. Liposuction is commonly used to remove fatty deposits from the abdomen, hips, buttocks, back, thighs, knees, calves, ankles, upper arms, jowls, cheeks and neck. .

How long does the treatment take?

The time in surgery varies, depending on the size of the area being treated. It can span from 30 minutes to five hours. If you choose to have multiple areas treated at once, the procedure will take longer.

Who are good candidates for liposuction?

Liposuction works very well on people who are of average weight with healthy elastic skin and who have localized fat collections, such as love handles or muffin tops that are resistant to diet and exercise. It works as a method of body contouring to reduce inches, not pounds. The suctioned fat cells are permanently removed and if the patient later gains weight, the new fat will be distributed in a more proportioned manner.

However, liposuction is not the answer for people seeking to reduce their weight and general obesity. For them, standard methods of weight loss are necessary. People with obesity, cellulite or loose sagging inelastic skin will have poor results from liposuction and these problems may even be worsened by it. Dr. Singer is an excellent judge of which candidates will enjoy the most success and a consultation with her will give you options you may not have thought of, such as a tummy tuck, if liposuction is not indicated. In addition, liposuction is often done in conjunction with other body contouring procedures, such as breast reduction, thigh-lift or face-lift.

What does the treatment involve?

Liposuction is typically performed under general anesthesia, but in some cases local anesthesia can be used. Other options include intravenous sedation or epidural block. While the patient sleeps, a saline solution mixed with anesthetic, and a vasoconstrictor to help stop bleeding, is introduced under the skin in the areas targeted for fat removal. The treated areas are then suctioned through a few very tiny incisions, removing the solution and undesired fat.

What can I expect after treatment?

For several days after surgery, the treated areas will be swollen and uncomfortable. Depending on your procedure, Dr. Singer may advise you to wear an elastic bandage/support hose to help compress tissue and control swelling and bruising for the first several days or weeks.

After treatment, you may resume your normal activities within a few days. In fact, we recommend you move about soon after surgery to decrease the risk of blood clots. However, patients should avoid strenuous activity  for at least three weeks.

Much depends on which area was treated, but generally your final results may not be fully evident for up to six months. although you may notice some difference as early as one week.

Is Liposuction for you?

Make a consultation appointment with Dr. Singer to find out. Call 727-547-9244.