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Liposuction is a procedure that reduces and slims disproportionate areas of the body that are resistant to both exercise and diet. The procedure can achieve a more appealing body contour by eliminating excess fat deposits. Areas commonly treated with excellent results include the tummy, hips, thighs, back/bra-line, arms, neck, male chest, and love handle areas. Liposuction is frequently performed in combination with other plastic surgery procedures to achieve optimal results.
The best candidates for liposuction are at or near their ideal body weight, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and have realistic expectations. Liposuction is not a treatment for obesity or a substitute for diet and fitness. It is best not to smoke one month before or after surgery, as this could have negative effects on the healing process.
The three most widely used liposuction techniques are traditional, laser, and ultrasound-assisted methods. The traditional method utilizes a surgical vacuum or syringe to suction fat out of the body. During laser liposuction, a thin laser fiber delivers low-energy waves to liquefy the excess fat. Ultrasound-assisted liposuction dissolves the unwanted fat using ultrasonic waves. These methods can be used alone or in conjunction with each other, and many factors determine which procedure is appropriate for you. It is important to schedule a consultation with Dr. Scott in order to design a treatment plan that specifically meets your needs and expectations.
Dr. Scott talks about indications for liposuction surgery and the benefits it provides.*
LIPOSUCTION PROCEDURE
Liposuction is generally performed in an ambulatory surgery center. Prior to the procedure, the areas of treatment will be marked while you are in an upright position in order to prevent distortion that could occur in a supine position. This also allows you to better visualize the exact areas that will be treated. You will then be administered the form of anesthesia that is appropriate to the number of areas being treated. The anesthesia may be local, intravenous sedation, or general. A saline solution containing a local anesthetic will be infused into the fatty layer to reduce postoperative discomfort and bruising. During the procedure, a thin hollow cannula attached to a vacuum is passed back and forth through very small incisions into the fat beneath the skin in order to loosen the excess fat deposits, which are then suctioned out of the body. This is repeated in all treatment areas until a smooth, natural-looking contour is achieved.
Dr. Scott discusses the recovery period and aftercare for a liposuction procedure.*
LIPOSUCTION RECOVERY
Recovery following liposuction is relatively straightforward. Initial swelling after the procedure is usually mild. Drainage from the small incision sites is normal during the first 24 hours after surgery. It is important to drink plenty of fluids during the first few days following your procedure. Dr. Scott will provide you with compression garments that should be worn over the treated areas for approximately 4 to 6 weeks. Depending on your level of discomfort, physical activity may be resumed within two days of your procedure. You will notice an immediate improvement in the treated areas after the procedure, and final results typically occur within 3 months.
