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Procedures - Liposuction
Liposuction is the removal of fat from a specific area of the body by inserting small canulas under the skin and suctioning out fat tissue. It is an extremely useful operation, but it must be stressed that it is NOT a means of weight loss. The best results are seen when overall body weight is within 10-20% of ideal body weight, and when skin elasticity is good. The skin must be capable of retracting when the fat is removed, otherwise the skin will sag. So generally, younger patients do better than older (over 50) patients.
The most popular areas for liposuction are the abdomen, flanks, lateral hips, and inside thighs. Each area is done separately, but may be combined in one operation. The removal of extreme amounts of fat can be dangerous if done as an outpatient procedure. Generally, we do not remove more than 5,000 grams of fat (about 12 pounds) in one session, and we plan our surgery around that limit. Small incisions are used to insert the canulas, and result in small scars. The operation time depends on how many areas are being done; generally each area takes about one hour to do. Afterwards, you must wear a girdle-like garment for about one month to minimize swelling and to help the skin redrape itself. You may shower the next day. Most people are able to return to work in about 7 - 10 days. Complications are limited when liposuction is not overdone. There is some swelling and bruising, and the skin over the areas may be numb for several weeks after the procedure. Occasionally, a touch-up procedure may be required. If this touch-up procedure does not require anesthesia, it can be done in our office at no charge. Rarely, the touch-up procedure does require anesthesia and thus a return to the surgical center, in which case some fees may be required. Body Contouring Links: American Society of Plastic Surgeons - Tummy Tuck American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery National Institue of Health US Food & Drug Administration Body Contouring Procedures: Abdominoplasty / "Tummytuck" Liposuction Brachioplasty / Armlift After Massive Weight Loss |
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