What can you tell me about liposuction?

Suction-assisted lipectomy is a highly effective technique used to sculpt and improve your body contour. It is also known as liposuction, or fat suction and is employed to remove unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body with minimal scarring. These areas may include the chin, neck, upper arms, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, or back. For men, common areas include the flanks (love handles), the abdomen, the back, or enlarged male breasts (a condition known as gynecomastia). Liposuction is not a substitute for weight reduction, but a method of removing unwanted localized fat deposits that do not respond to diet or exercise. Liposuction can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence. View liposuction photos.

Who are the best candidates for liposuction?

The ideal candidates for liposuction are physically healthy patients with pockets of excess fat in localized areas who are psychologically stable and realistic in their expectations. The best results are achieved in patients with good skin tone and quality that allows their skin to conform to the new body contour.

What can you tell me about the procedure?

Recontouring of the body is achieved by removing fat deposits using a cannula (hollow tube) and a suction device. The cannula is inserted through strategically placed small incisions and the fat cells that lie deep beneath the skin are removed. The length of the procedure varies (usually 1-4 hours) based on your body habitus and the amount of areas that are treated. The procedure is usually performed as an outpatient day surgery. However, an overnight stay may be required if a large volume of fat is being removed or it is combined with other procedures such as a tummy tuck.

What should I anticipate about the recovery?

Temporary bruising and soreness are to be expected and should improve after 7-10 days. The swelling and numbness will take longer to resolve but can be minimized by wearing an elastic garment (similar to spandex tights) which will be provided and should be worn for 3 weeks. In addition minimizing the swelling, the garment will help reshape your skin to your new body contour to achieve the best result. Your return to work will vary based on the areas treated and extent of fat removed. Most patients should be able to return to work after 5-10 days. You are encouraged to walk the same day of your surgery and can return to light activity after a few days. However, strenuous should be avoided for 3 weeks.

What other tips do I need to know about?

To optimize your results, you should maintain a stable weight, healthy diet, and exercise program before and after you have liposuction. If you have excess, loose skin then you may obtain more benefit from a procedure that removes both the skin and fat such as a tummy tuck, thigh lift, or arm lift. Dr. Awada will be glad to provide you with a consultation and assist you in determining the procedure that fits your needs.

Learn more about liposuction, a thigh lift, an arm lift, tummy tuck surgery, or breast surgery or call this female plastic surgeon in Michigan to schedule a consultation.