5 Liposuction Questions To Ask

Are you dealing with stubborn pockets of fat that just won’t seem to budge, despite diet and exercise? If this sounds like you, you may be able to benefit from liposuction— a popular fat-reduction procedure. This plastic surgery procedure is one of the most popular to date and can help contour your body for a slimmer appearance. Before undergoing any procedure, you should be fully informed about all aspects of the procedure. Read on about what questions you should ask before getting liposuction procedures.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure that removes the fat cells just under the skin on parts of the body that are resistant to diet and exercise. This is not a weight loss procedure, rather, it is a way to remove pockets of fat in healthy individuals that are at or near their ideal weight. It can be performed by a skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon on several areas of the body, including the chin, thighs, hips, abdomen, love handles, and more.

Who is a Good Candidate?

Ideal candidates for a liposuction procedure are healthy individuals who are 10-15lbs of their goal weight. Liposuction removes subcutaneous fat, which is fat that resides between muscles and skin. It does not treat visceral fat, which is the layer of fat deep beneath the muscle layer. Plastic surgeons often find the best candidates for liposuction have good skin elasticity. Skin elasticity is helpful so that when the fat is removed your skin can shrink to your new contours instead of leaving behind loose, unflattering skin.

How Can I Prepare for Liposuction Surgery?

You will be provided with instructions for the days leading up to your traditional liposuction procedure. However, in general, it is important to enlist the help of a friend or family member who can drive you home from the procedure and assist you with recovery. You will be asked to avoid taking certain medications, such as blood thinners and certain painkillers, two weeks before surgery.

What is the Procedure Like?

During a liposuction procedure, small incisions will be made in the treatment area so a thin tube, called a cannula, can be inserted into the fat pocket. The fat will then be suctioned out of the body. This procedure is usually done under general anesthesia and can last 1-2 hours. It is an outpatient surgical procedure, meaning you will go home the day of the procedure.

What to Expect During Recovery

After the procedure, you will be sent home in a compression garment that will be worn for 1-2 months to help control swelling. Most patients can return to work in a few days and resume all normal activities within 2-4 weeks. However, recovery time may vary depending on the areas treated and the amount of fat that was removed.

If you are interested in learning more about liposuction to eliminate stubborn areas of fat, contact our office today to schedule your consultation.