10 Things to Know About Liposuction

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by Dr. Steven Wallach

Since the early 1980s, the popularity of the liposuction procedure continues to retain a consistent upward trend. Below are ten essential things you need to know about liposuction before you decide to have the surgery yourself.

What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that eliminates fat deposits under the skin that are resistant to diet and exercise. This procedure involves the cosmetic surgeon making incisions in your body to remove stubborn layers of fat.

Who’s an Ideal Candidate for Liposuction?

Typically, cosmetic surgeons recommend liposuction for non-smoking adults who are within 30% of their desired weight. An even muscle tone and firm, elastic skin is a bonus for the best results. The surgeon must examine the patient’s skin condition before recommending this procedure.

Which Body Parts Undergo Liposuction?

Patients regularly receive liposuction throughout many areas of the body. Common areas with stubborn fat layers to treat with liposuction include:

• Love handles
• Abdominal area
• Bra strap area
• Upper arms
• Outer thighs
• Breasts (male & female)
• Neck & below the chin

Professional surgeons must consult with the patient to identify the most optimal part of the procedure.

Liposuction Isn’t A Weight Loss Procedure

There’s the common misconception that liposuction triggers quick weight loss. However, the ultimate goal for liposuction is to enhance the appearance of a specific body area. By removing fat, the goal of liposuction is to change the shape of the body, not to lose weight. Similarly, liposuction doesn’t eliminate cellulite.

How to Best Prepare for Liposuction

Once you decide on liposuction, find a certified plastic surgeon to walk you through the process. Moreover, identify a friend to help with post-surgical care. It would be best if you avoid aspirin and certain prescriptions about a week before the procedure. Don’t take any food or drinks at least 12 hours before going in for the surgery.

What Happens During Liposuction

Before your liposuction procedure, the plastic surgeon draws lines on your body to identify the incision areas. After sedation, they then make the incisions and insert a cannula, which connects to the fat-extraction syringe. Once the process is complete, the surgeon seals the incisions and prepares you for discharge.

Expect Mild Bruising and Pain

During surgery, the cannula delves into the fat pocket to allow for extraction. Since the cannula is small, the formed scars are almost invisible. Your skin quality also determines the consequent scarring. You will require an anesthetic for the procedure, which gradually weakens, leaving you with a bit of pain. In some cases, you may be prescribed pain medication so that the recovery is comfortable.

Liposuction Recovery Period

Upon completing the procedure, the surgeon gives you a compression garment to encourage proper healing and reduce swelling. You’ll experience a little discomfort for 2-3 days after the surgery. Plastic surgeons advise that you avoid strenuous activity for at least two weeks after your liposuction.

Liposuction Requires Excellent Safety

Just like all other surgical procedures, liposuction entails top-notch safety. Working with poorly skilled doctors puts you at health risks, some of which have terminal after-effects. Always work with a certified professional whose experience is tangible.

Expected Results

Liposuction doesn’t come with instant results. The incisions cause swelling on your body, which take almost a month to resolve. Detectable results of liposuction become substantial only after the swelling dissipates.

Schedule a Consultation

Steven Wallach is your go-to certified plastic surgeon for all your liposuction needs. Schedule an appointment and achieve the body you desire!