INTRODUCTION

Liposuction is the most common procedure performed in plastic surgery. A fit and well-proportioned body is often considered a symbol of health and vitality. Liposuction is the very best way to remove unwanted fat and to re-contour the body. Typically the best candidates for liposuction are patients who are of average weight and have pockets of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise. Liposuction is not a substitute for weight reduction.

The effects of liposuction are felt to be permanent. Contrary to “urban legend,” we have not observed patients develop fat deposits in other areas of the body following liposuction.

ANALYSIS

At your consultation we will present to you a comprehensive treatment strategy. We will discuss your recommended procedure in detail. We will also advise you of the potential risks and complications of surgery. We will outline your recovery period and make focused suggestions to make your surgery experience safe, easy, and as pleasant as possible.

PROCEDURE

The surgery can take anywhere from ½ to 3 hours to perform, depending on the needs and goals of the patient and how much surgery is performed. Except for minor corrections, you will be totally asleep for the surgery to minimize anxiety and to maximize comfort.

The surgery consists of a very tiny incision in the area to be treated. Into this incision is placed a very thin [3 mm] tube that has lots of little holes near the tip of the tube. The tube is connected to a very high powered suction device and the fat is literally “vacuumed away.” Following surgery, you will be placed in a special elastic compression garment for support and protection.

AFTERCARE

Recovery from liposuction surgery is a “process” and will depend largely on the amount of surgery performed, your motivation for success, and your dedication in precisely following our written after-surgery instructions. Discomfort is minimal. Your “down time” will typically be about week, but that will vary depending on the amount of liposuction surgery performed. You will need to wear your compression garment for 6 weeks. Final results appear in 2-4 months following surgery.