Liposuction (suction assisted lipectomy) is a body-sculpting procedure to remove fat that is unresponsive to healthy eating and exercising.  This procedure can be applied to many areas of the body and is popular with both men and women.  Liposuction results in a slimmer and better proportioned figure.  Liposuction is used effectively to reduce fatty arms, breasts on men or women, love handles, abdominal fat, saddlebags on the thighs, or other unsightly fatty deposits in order to create a better shaped  body.

Reasons for Considering Liposuction:

• Eliminate fat from any of the following areas:
  • Chin and Neckline
  • Back
  • Upper Arms
  • Stomach and Waistline
  • Hips
  • Inner and outer thighs
• Create a better proportioned figure

     Liposuction is not a replacement for proper exercise and a healthy diet.  Instead, liposuction is a reduction procedure for stubborn areas where fat accumulates.   Ideal surgical candidates are those already in good physical condition but having stubborn areas that do not respond to diet and exercise.

General Procedure

     Liposuction can be done under general anesthesia or with light sedation.   Occasionally local anesthesia alone can be used.  It is usually performed in an outpatient surgical suite.   Through a tiny incision, a small suction tube is inserted to add fluid the the fatty tissue and dissolve it.  The fat is then removed with gentle suction.  The surgeon determines the amount of fat to be removed by massaging the skin.  After eliminating the excess fat, the incisions are closed with a few stitches and a compression garment is applied.  Pain is minimal.   We recommend you rest quietly at home for about a week following surgery.

    The safest way to perform liposuction is with the tumescent technique as described above.  This will minimize pain, bruising, swelling and maximize the amount of fatty tissue that can be safely removed.  Liposuction surgery is a safe procedure with dramatic results when performed by a board certified plastic surgeon. 

Recovery Process

     New techniques allow for faster recovery from liposuction procedures.  The length of the recovery will depend on how extensive the surgery is.  We recommend about a week off of work, with rest, fluids and relaxation.   This will minimize the risk of complications, speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time.  A support garment should be worn for several weeks after the surgery to help the skin shrink and contract.  Pain is usually minimal.  While complications are rare, patients can minimize the risk for potential problems by carefully following the directions given after surgery.