1. What is ultrasonic liposuction?

Traditionally, liposuction is done in two stages - the injection of tumescent solution, a dilute solution of medicine to numb the tissues as well as decrease bleeding, followed by the suctioning of the treated fat compartment. Ultrasonic liposuction introduces a third step in the middle where ultrasound is used to disrupt fat cells prior to suctioning them out. Personally, I have not been impressed with ultrasonic liposuction. More recently, SmartLipo and SlimLipo technologies use lasers to accomplish the same thing - liquifying the fat for easier removal, as well as tightening the skin by heating the under surface causing it to contract. Although I have not been impressed with SmartLipo, my experience with SlimLipo has shown excellent results. The main drawback to any of these methods is the extra cost to the patient for the use of the ultrasonic or laser equipment.


2. Can the fat come back?

We are born with a certain number of fat cells in our bodies. These cells grow and shrink as we gain or lose weight. They are basically little storage containers for fat. Unless we overwhelm our storage capacity, we do not normally grow new fat cells. Thus, once the fat is removed from an area, it should not return.


3. Is it true that other areas get fat after liposuction?

Theoretically, this is true; however, I have never had a patient complain that they suddenly started gaining fat in another area after liposuction.


4. Is liposuction surgery painful?

Pain is a relative term. Still, most of my liposuction patients seem to complain more of general soreness rather than pain. The use of SmartLipo or SlimLipo seems to be slightly more painful to my patients, probably due to the heat used to help contract the skin.


5. When can exercising be resumed?

Different doctors may use different protocols about when their patients can resume more strenuous activity. In my practice, three weeks is the magic number. After that, you can do anything you want to do.


6. How much time off work is required?

Each patient is different in their recovery. Some bounce back faster than others. I tell my patients that they can resume normal activities as soon as they feel up to it, however, they should not do anything too strenuous for three weeks. For most of my patients, a weekend off is adequate. They may still be sore on Monday morning but they are able to go back to work as long as no heavy lifting or strenuous activity is involved.


7. Where are the scars located after liposuction?

Placement of the incision sites varies from doctor to doctor. Whenever possible, we try to hide the scars inside existing folds or creases. The scars are generally quite small, usually only a few millimeters in length.