What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that reduces the amount of fat cells in a certain area with a suction device.

Are the results of liposuction permanent?

The fat cells removed are gone for good. There will always be some fat cells remaining in the areas suctioned. If one does not watch their diet and continue on an exercise regimen, the remaining fat cells can hypertrophy (get bigger). So, if you continue to watch your diet and exercise, yes, the results are permanent.

What technique will the surgeon use to perform the liposuction?

There are a number of ways to perform liposuction. There is the standard Suction-assisted liposuction (SAL), Pressure-assisted liposuction (PAL) and ultrasonic (UAL). These three are all surgical liposuctions. There are also non-surgical types but I have found that the surgical techniques are more long-lasting and cost-effective. I use Pressure-assisted and Suction-assisted liposuction most frequently; in that order. I will use Ultrasonic (UAL) for repeat cases or problem areas with a lot of fibrous tissues.

Who is a good candidate for liposuction?

Any person with excess fat that bothers them who is in good health. The ideal candidate is one who eats well and exercises and just can't get rid of their problem area(s).

What are the risks associated with liposuction surgery?

The risks of all surgery include bleeding, infection and anesthesia. Some of the risks specific to liposuction include asymmetry, fat embolus, venous embolism, pulmonary embolism. If the patient is healthy and ambulating after surgery, these risks are quite minor.

How long is the recovery period?

You will wake up from the procedure with a compression garment on. This will need to be worn for 6 weeks post-surgery. You will feel bruised and tired the first several days, but will begin to regain your strength quickly. Depending on the number of areas, amount removed and the patient; one can return to their normal activities with 3-7 days. For my patients, I do not want them to resume their exercise routine for 4 weeks. However, I want them to walk immediately after surgery and as much as possible during those 4 weeks.