Liposuction

One of the most popular fat removal procedures performed by physicians today is liposuction. This surgical procedure can remove those stubborn, hard-to-lose areas of fat that resist even the strictest diet plans and exercise regimens. A great advantage of liposuction is that it can target fat deposits in a wide variety of areas. Some of the common areas where people choose to have liposuction are the hips, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, calves, arms, neck, and face. Of course, different areas pose different challenges; therefore, the aim of this page is to provide some basic overall information regarding this surgery.

Liposuction Procedure Process

Let’s take a look at how this surgery is performed. Liposuction requires general or local anesthesia depending on the type of procedure you are undergoing. If a large amount of fat is being removed you will most likely be given general anesthesia, which will put your whole body to sleep. Conversely, local anesthesia is ideal for smaller procedures in specific regions. Total surgery time depends on which method is used.

After administering anesthesia, the surgeon will make incisions on the treatment areas to remove excess fat. These incisions are usually made in discreet and unnoticeable areas so the scars won’t be visible once the healing is complete. Once the incisions are made, thin tubes called cannulas will be inserted in the body to draw out the fat. Lastly, the incisions will be sutured and the surgeon may also apply drainage tubes.

Ideal Candidates for Liposuction

Generally, an ideal candidate for liposuction is someone who is in good shape physically, maintains a steady weight, and leads an overall healthy lifestyle. Individuals who exercise regularly, but are having a difficult time getting rid of stubborn fat from certain regions of the body like the “love handles” or flabby arms would benefit from liposuction. This procedure can grant you a more contoured and lean look that you were not able to get through dieting and exercising.

On the other hand, liposuction is not for individuals who require major weight loss or even a bariatric surgery. That is why the surgeons at New York’s Madison Avenue Plastic Surgery recommend that prospective patients familiarize themselves with what liposuction can and can not achieve for them and hold reasonable expectations.

Recovery After Liposuction

It goes without saying that after any cosmetic procedure, one should follow all directions given to them by their doctor and liposuction is no different in this regard. Here is a brief overview of what a typical recovery process entails:

• During the initial few days after the surgery, you will see swelling and bruising in the treatment area. You may also experience some minor pain. It will take about two to three weeks for most of the swelling to subside while bruises will disappear earlier.
• In some cases, a compression garment is also required to be worn to apply pressure on the treatment area.
• If you did not undergo a major liposuction surgery, then you should be able to continue your daily activities in one to two weeks. However, for the first few days, it would be best to have a family member to assist you at home.
• You will be required to have follow-up visits with your surgeon to assess your recovery process. If you experience unusual pain or discomfort, this will allow you the opportunity to have these issues addressed.
• Final results can take several months to become apparent. Moreover, you will have to live a healthy life to maintain the results.

Consult With Madison Avenue Plastic Surgery in New York

As you can see, liposuction is a very comprehensive procedure and it can differ a lot from patient to patient. While this page provides a brief summary of some major parts of the surgery, we invite you to set up a consultation to further analyze whether liposuction is an option for you. Please, send us a message to schedule an appointment with our experienced surgeons at New York’s Madison Avenue Plastic Surgery.