Well known in the realm of cosmetic surgery, liposuction is popular, safe, and results in significant improvements in body shape and contour. Liposuction typically ranks as the number one or number two cosmetic surgical procedure year after year. In 2018 there were 289,261 liposuction procedures performed in the US, according to Cosmetic Surgery National Data Bank complied by The American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. Liposuction can be performed alone, or it can be combined with other procedures such as a tummy tuck, body lift, thigh lift, or arm lift.
Liposuction effectively removes unwanted fat deposits which have been unresponsive to exercise and diet – especially those localized fat deposits in the abdomen, buttocks, flank, hips, thighs, inner knee, and under the chin. The ideal candidates for liposuction are adults with firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone, who have pockets of excess fat and who are within 30% of their ideal weight.
What is involved in a liposuction procedure?
- Liposuction can be performed with local anesthetic and intravenous sedation, or with a general anesthetic.
- A wetting solution is infused to help loosen and remove the fat.
- A thin hollow tube called a cannula is inserted through several tiny incisions. The cannula is moved in a back and forth motion to break up and loosen the fat. The dislodged fat is suctioned away using a surgical vacuum.
- When complete, sutures are used to close the incisions.
- A compression garment is worn to assist with healing.
Prior to your procedure, you may be asked to:
- Take certain medications or adjust your current medications.
- Get lab testing or a medical evaluation.
- Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements since these may increase the risk of bleeding.
- Stop smoking.
It is important to follow your surgeon’s post-surgical instructions. A compression garment will be placed in the operating room. This garment is worn to reduce swelling, improve comfort, prevent fluid collections, and recontour your shape. This garment is usually worn a minimum of 6 weeks. Your incisions should not be subjected to excessive motion or tension while they heal; and sun exposure should be avoided. Swelling is common, and will subside over several weeks. Your liposuction results will be long lasting if you are active and maintain a stable weight.
Click here to view some liposuction before and after pictures >>
If you are curious about liposuction and would like to learn more about it or any of the other surgical options we offer, please call to schedule a consultation appointment: (414) 443-0033.