If you find yourself struggling to get rid of excess fat in your abdomen, neck, arms, back or thighs, then you might have heard of liposuction. Liposuction is a great treatment that targets stubborn areas of fat to create a contoured shape and slimmer appearance. We’ve put together the ultimate guide to liposuction below to help answer all your questions about this treatment.
WHAT IS LIPOSUCTION?
Liposuction is a body contouring surgical procedure that helps in removing excess stubborn fat and shaping and contouring the body.
PROCEDURE
Liposuction is comparatively less intrusive than other cosmetic surgical treatments. However, it depends on how much fat the surgeon will have to remove and how many areas will be treated during your treatment.
The surgeon will use either local anesthesia or general anesthesia during the procedure to ensure that you do not feel any pain. Then, several incisions are made in the treatment area before injecting a mixture of epinephrine, saline, and lidocaine. This technique, known as tumescent, results in swelling of the fat, improves the treatment effects, and reduces blood loss.
Finally, the cannula (a small tube) will be inserted into the incisions and suction out the excess fat.
ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for liposuction, you must not be too overweight. You must be within the 30 percent range of your standard healthy weight. If you have any medical conditions currently, they should be under control. You must also have realistic expectations about the liposuction treatment.
SELECTING A PLASTIC SURGEON
Working with a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience in liposuction is important when selecting the right practitioner for your procedure. Schedule a consultation with your plastic surgeon prior to your procedure to learn about the procedure, their knowledge, experience and to review liposuction patient photos.
POST-TREATMENT
It may take up to two weeks to recover from the liposuction procedure. The treatment area may swell, and you might experience some bruising, which is normal. Getting lymphatic massages during the post-treatment period is recommended as they will decrease recovery time and improve results by reducing swelling and scar formation. Some patients are able to return to work fairly quickly (2-3 days), however, we recommend that you take things easy. Always remember with liposuction, you may see changes after 6 weeks, but it takes 6-10 months before your new body shape and contour is visible.
MYTHS
1. Liposuction and tummy tuck are the same- Liposuction can enhance the results of a tummy tuck. However, they are not the same. You can learn more about tummy tucks here.
2. It helps in weight loss- It is not useful or recommended for weight loss. Liposuction is ideal for patients who have lost weight and now want to get rid of stubborn fat.
3. It has no downtime- Downtime depends on the treatment area(s) and the amount of fat removed. Each patient’s downtime is dependent on several factors.
HOW MUCH IS LIPOSUCTION?
Various factors influence the cost of the liposuction treatment including treatment areas, anesthesia used, in-office or out-patient, etc. To get a complete price for your liposuction treatment, we recommend scheduling a consultation here wit h Dr. Lee.
ABOUT NUVEAU PLASTIC SURGERY & MEDICAL AESTHETICS
If you are tired of stubborn fat, liposuction may be the right option for you. Nuveau Plastic Surgery & Medical Aesthetics, one of the best cosmetic and plastic surgery centers in Houston, TX, holds an excellent reputation for its excellent services. We are known for transforming the lives of our clients with our treatments. For more information about us, contact us at 713-352—3447 or schedule an appointment.
