What is liposuction?

Liposuction is removal of fat through small incisions in the body. A small tube is used to aspirate (suck) the fat through multiple small incisions.

How long is the recovery period?

Recovery can vary widely from patient to patient. However, many patients are able to return to work and most normal activities within 5-7 days. There is still moderate swelling and some discomfort at this stage. We recommend that no vigorous activity be done for at least 2 weeks. Most of the swelling has receded by 6 weeks, however it typically takes 4-5 months before all of the swelling has gone away.

What are the risks associated with liposuction surgery?

All patients will have swelling and bruising for a period of time. The skin overlying the areas liposuctioned are also often numb for a period of time. If the liposuction is too aggressive, dimpling, contour irregularities, or streaking can occur. Other more significant complications include infection, bleeding, blood clots, and lidocaine toxicity.

What technique will the surgeon use to perform the liposuction?

There are many different liposuction techniques. These include tumescent liposuction, ultra-sonic liposuction, laser-assisted liposuction, and mechanically assisted liposuction. Almost all techniques require that a large volume of solution be infiltrated (infused) into the areas to be liposuctioned. This solution contains saline, epinephrine (to minimize bleeding), and lidocaine (to provide anesthesia). We typically use the proven method of tumescent liposuction in our office.

Who is a good candidate for liposuction?

The best candidates for liposuction typically are close to their ideal body weight and have specific, localized areas of fatty excess. It is also beneficial to have relatively good skin quality with a minimal number of stretch marks. Liposuction is not a weight loss method, but rather is a body contouring or shaping tool. For example, if a patient has a large abdominal roll with excess skin, she is a better candidate for a tummy tuck than liposuction.Liposuction alone is likely to leave a significant amount of excess skin and a persistent belly roll. Liposuction is often used in combination with other body contouring procedures.