1. What is ultrasonic liposuction?

In order to understand ultrasonic liposuction, you need to understand standard liposuction first. In standard liposuction, a small incision is made through which a hollow metal tube is passed into the fat under the skin. This tube is moved back and forth to break up the fat and the broken fat is removed through the tube. In ultrasonic liposuction, ultrasound waves are used to melt the fat so that it is easier to remove.


2. Can the fat come back?

Each person is born with a certain number of fat cells and in each individual these fat cells are distributed differently. Some people have more fat cells in their love handles, abdomen, or thighs, for example. When you gain weight, each of these fat cells becomes larger, but they do not grow in number. With liposuction, fat cells are permanently removed from the problem area treated. If the patient then gains weight, the weight should not disproportionately go back to that area but if enough weight is gained, it can certainly make that area larger again.


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

If the patient maintains their weight, other areas will not become fatter after liposuction to compensate for fat elsewhere being removed. The challenge after liposuction is keeping an eye on your weight as the first place you notice a few extra pounds may be different than it was before surgery. For instance, if your hips have always been a problem area for you and your first sign of weight gain was your jeans becoming a little tighter in that area, after the hips are treated with liposuction, your first sign of weight gain may be in the thighs, abdomen, or buttocks.


4. Is liposuction surgery painful?

There is pain associated with any operation. The pain associated with liposuction will vary depending on the area treated as some are more sensitive than others. In general, it feels like a really bad bruise.


5. When can exercising be resumed?

Every surgeon has different recommendations for their patients. In my practice, I advise my patients to avoid strenuous activity such as exercise for 4 weeks after surgery.


6. How much time off work is required?

This will also vary depending on the area treated, the pain tolerance of the patient, and the requirements of the job, but most patients who work in an office setting will take 1-2 weeks off work for recovery.


7. Where are the scars located after liposuction?

The scars for liposuction are typically about a centimeter long (less than 1/2 an inch) and their location will depend on the area treated. In general, attempts are made to hide these scars in inconspicuous areas and once they are healed, the scars are difficult to see in most patients.