Liposuction
Liposuction, also known as suction-assisted lipectomy, or fat-suction, is a procedure used to improve the body's contour by removing fat deposits that lie between the skin and muscle. Fat cells are permanently removed from the directed area. Candidates include men and women, who are in good physical and mental health, yet have areas of excess fat. Having firm and elastic skin will result in a better final contour.
Liposuction is not a substitute for weight reduction. The most frequently treated areas in women are the chin, abdomen, thighs, hips, knees, arms, buttocks, calves, and ankles. Men typically have liposuction performed on the neck, chin, abdomen, "love handles" and breasts. The procedure involves making small incisions to insert a hollow tube called a cannula. Fluid is added to reduce bleeding and pain. Excess fat is then removed through the tube until a pleasing improvement is made. Several areas may be suctioned during one procedure.
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Liposuction Benefits
Liposuction comes with a wide array of benefits you can look forward to, including the following:
- Improved body contour
- Improved confidence
- Removal of stubborn body fat that wouldn’t budge with diet and exercise
- Easier time fitting into clothes
- Better body image
Good Candidates for Liposuction
Ideal candidates for liposuction are individuals who are at or near their target weight but have stubborn pockets of fat that do not respond to traditional weight loss methods like diet and exercise. Candidates should be in good health, have good skin elasticity, have realistic expectations, and be non-smokers.
Preparing for Liposuction
Preparing for liposuction involves stopping smoking, vaping, and alcohol for a period of time before your surgery. You’ll also need to avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, and other anti-inflammatories. You will want to stop eating and drinking starting at midnight the night before your surgery. You will also want to arrange for transportation to and from surgery and someone to stay with you for at least the first night afterward. We recommend taking 1-2 weeks off work as well.
Liposuction Procedure
The liposuction procedure is relatively straightforward. We’ll begin by administering general anesthesia to ensure you're comfortable. From there, Dr. Atalla will make an incision in the treatment area and then use a cannula to loosen up, liquefy, and suction out the unwanted fat. Once all the excess fat is removed, the incisions will be stitched up, and you’ll be ready to start the recovery process.
Liposuction Recovery
Recovery from liposuction varies, but most patients can return to work and light activities within a week or two. Swelling and bruising are common and may last for several weeks. Wearing a compression garment can help reduce swelling and support the healing process. You’ll also want to avoid strenuous activity for at least a month or so.
While a liposuction procedure can remove fat and fat cells from certain areas of your body, it’s important to keep in mind that you can still gain weight after liposuction. That’s why it’s so important to have a healthy lifestyle to maintain your results and your new shape.
Results of Liposuction
While you may notice some results immediately after your procedure, most improvements will be hidden behind the swelling and bruising. It will take several weeks before you start to see your final results and a few months before all the swelling dissipates.
Liposuction Combination Procedures
There are a few different types of procedures that tend to go well with liposuction. They include fat transfer, tummy tuck, and a mommy makeover.
Fat Transfer
Liposuction and fat transfer go hand in hand. Liposuction needs to occur for fat transfer to happen. The fat that is suctioned out with liposuction is purified and then injected into other areas of the body that you want to enhance. This could be your breasts, buttocks, or even your face.
Tummy Tuck
A tummy tuck and liposuction are also a great pairing. The abdomen is often a place with unwanted fat. Add to that loose skin and weakened muscles, and it’s easy to see why so many people have these two procedures together and achieve a beautifully sculpted stomach area.
Mommy Makeover
Liposuction is a perfect procedure to add to your mommy makeover and is one of the most common additions to this combination procedure. By removing excess fat, you can address any leftover unwanted fat from pregnancy quickly and easily.
Cost of Liposuction
The cost of liposuction depends on how much fat is removed and the size of the treatment area. On average, the procedure can cost between $3,000 and $8,000. It will cost more if you add additional procedures to your surgery.
What to Expect From a Liposuction Consultation
During your liposuction consultation, Dr. Atalla will review your medical history and list of medications, answer any questions you have, perform an exam, and address your concerns. From there, he’ll build a customized treatment plan that will help you meet your aesthetic goals.
Ready to get started? Schedule a consultation today by calling our Bowling Green, KY office at (270) 563-7732 or using our online contact form.
What is liposuction and how does it work?
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MINI-ABDOMINOPLASTY + LIPOSUCTION | 29 y/o female [one year post-op] | Dr. F. Victor Atalla, Board Certified Plastic Surgeon