Liposuction is a fat removal treatment used in cosmetic plastic surgery. In most cases, liposuction can help change the shape of the body. It is not uncommon to have extra fat on the body that is too stubborn to be removed by exercising, and liposuction can help. The procedure is not a replacement for weight loss, but it is an effective solution for stubborn areas that resist change through diet and exercise. If you are thinking about having liposuction surgery, here are some answers to the most frequently asked questions.
Do I Qualify for Liposuction?
If you are thinking about getting liposuction, then a surgeon will determine if you are an ideal candidate. In most cases, the first thing doctors will do is make sure you are in good condition physically. If you are at a healthy body weight for your size and have persistent fat deposits on specific areas of your body, you are eligible for liposuction.
Genetics plays a big part in determining who can receive the procedure. This is because men and women tend to get fat deposits in different parts of the body. The most common areas for liposuction are the inner and outer thighs, abdomen, flanks, arms, buttocks, knee area, and neck. Remember that liposuction is about building confidence by improving the shape of your body, and it is not about quick weight reduction.
Should I See a Professional?
Liposuction is considered a medical procedure and should be performed by a highly qualified professional. As with any medical procedure, it comes with its own set of risks. A skilled and experienced surgeon will discuss potential side effects with you.
In the US, liposuction can only be done by plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, ABPS. To get the best results, they will have a thorough understanding of anatomy, health, and specialized techniques. If you are going to invest in yourself, you want the finest professional you can find.
What Can I Expect During and After the Procedure?
General anesthesia lets you sleep during the entire procedure. Then a unique suction tool known as a cannula is used to remove excess fat. Discomfort afterward is minimal, and many patients describe the feeling after the surgery as minor soreness. Avoid strenuous physical activity until swelling and bruising are entirely gone. Recovery time will vary between one to three weeks, and the average time away from work is about seven days. You can minimize the risk for post-surgical complications by carefully following directions from your surgeon.
A primary concern many people have after the procedure is scarring. The good news is that the incisions will only be around two to three millimeters in diameter. Once the incisions heal, it will hardly be noticeable. You may benefit from wearing a support garment for a while, depending on the areas of treatment. Typically, it takes about two to three weeks to see the complete results of the procedure.
Is Liposuction Permanent?
There is a misconception that any new fat that gets added to the body after treatment will deposit itself in new or unusual places. Not so. Once the fat cells are removed, they will not reoccur. However, since there are fewer cells in the areas that were treated, the untreated remaining fat cells can increase in size. To maintain optimal results after liposuction, maintain a healthy diet, exercise, drink plenty of water, and rest appropriately.
The First Step to a New You
If you've tried everything to lose weight, but nothing seems to work or last very long, it may be time to consider other alternatives, including liposuction. Begin by consulting with a professional like Gavin Dry, MD, FRCPS, PLLC. Dr. Dry has extensive experience with the procedure and will work with you to craft a customized surgical plan. Call our Bellevue office today!