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Liposuction
Other names
Lipoplasty, Suction Lipectomy, Lipo
Purpose
Slims and reshapes specific areas of the body.
Procedure type
Outpatient
Recovery time
2 - 14 days
Complements
Breast Augmentation, Breast Lift, Breast Reduction, Tummy Tuck, Arm Lift, Thigh Lift
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Home > Procedures > Cosmetic Surgery
Liposuction
Goals
- Remove localized or regional excess fat deposits
- Improve body contour and proportion
Description
Liposuction, also called lipoplasty or suction lipectomy, is a procedure that can help sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat from specific areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. While liposuction is not a substitute for dieting and exercise, liposuction can remove stubborn areas of fat that don't respond to traditional weight-loss methods.
Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity nor is it effective in treating cellulite, the dimpled skin that typically appears on the thighs, hips and buttocks.
Also, if there is excessive skin or fat, other surgical procedures may be needed in addition or instead of liposuction. For example, a tummy tuck may more effectively meet your goal if there is abdominal skin overhang. Patients who are the best candidates for liposuction are within 30% of their ideal weight and have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone.
Procedure
Liposuction is a highly individualized procedure that requires careful consideration of your specific goals and desires. Your skin will be accessed for tone and elasticity and your body contour evaluated for fat density and distribution.
The time required to perform liposuction depends on the location and size of the area, the amount of fat to be removed, and the type of anesthesia used. Small areas may be performed under local anesthesia while larger areas may be better suited under general anesthesia.
At the Advanced Institute for Plastic Surgery, we always inject a special solution under the skin prior to beginning liposuction to help decrease swelling and bruising. This method allows us to remove more fat by minimizing blood loss. It also provides anesthesia during and after surgery.
Liposuction is performed though small, inconspicuous incisions that are hidden within the natural creases and contours of the body. Through tiny incisions, a thin hollow tube or cannula is inserted and used to loosen excess fat. The dislodged fat is then removed using a surgical suction device connected to the cannula.
After the liposuction is complete, the incisions may either be left open or closed with stitches depending on the location of the incision and amount of drainage present. A snug compression garment or bandage will then be applied to help the healing process.
Recovery
After surgery, you will wear a compression garment or bandage depending on the area. You will likely experience some fluid drainage from the incisions. The surgical areas will be uncomfortable after surgery, but the pain shouldn't be severe. Pain can be controlled with medication. It is normal to feel a bit anxious or depressed in the days or weeks following surgery. However, this feeling will subside as you begin to look and feel better.
Healing is a gradual process. You should walk around as soon as possible to reduce swelling and to help prevent blood clots from forming in your legs. Activity that is more strenuous should be avoided for about a month as your body continues to heal. Although most of the bruising and swelling usually disappears within three weeks, some swelling may remain for six months or more.
Most patients are able to return to work or school within a few days following surgery. Patients with more extensive liposuction may require more time off.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How much time is required for liposuction?
A: The surgery time varies greatly depending on the location and amount of fat to be removed. In general, liposuction takes 1 to 3 hours. As with all surgeries, the amount of time needed varies from patient to patient.
Q: Is liposuction an inpatient or outpatient procedure?
A: Outpatient.
Q: What are some common side effects?
A: Most side effects of liposuction are temporary. They include discomfort, swelling, numbness, bruising, and limited mobility.
Q: What is the recovery time?
A: When small areas of liposuction are performed, most patients can return to work or school in a few days. More extensive procedures will take longer to recover from.
Q: How long do the results last?
A: The results from liposuction are permanent. However, significant weight gain can reverse your results.
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