Liposuction

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes moderate amounts of fat from specific areas of the body to restore shape and contour. To do this, a small incision is made through which a thin hollow tube called a cannula is inserted into fatty deposits. The cannula is connected to a vacuum that removes the fat. The surgeon shapes the fat deposits creating a new contour to your silhouette. The incisions are hidden in skin folds that are imperceptible when healed. After the procedure you will wear a compression garment to minimize the swelling and bruising. Remember, liposuction is not a substitute for overall weight loss, exercise and a healthy diet. Fat cells do remain in the surgical sites and will re-accumulate bulk with weight gain. The rule I use: weight loss improves results from liposuction and the converse, weight gain significantly detracts from the results.

Liposuction can be performed at almost any age; the best results occur when the skin still has enough elasticity to achieve a smooth, even contour after fat removal. Areas containing stretch marks have lost their elasticity and are not the best areas for liposuction. The best candidate is an individual of normal weight and stature. The fat deposits are usually localized to several areas that distort contour and silhouette. The most common areas are the hips, thighs, and abdomen. These are the areas that often sluggishly respond to diet and exercise and may require surgery to enhance your best efforts at the gym.

The press has been replete with well publicized injuries and deaths from liposuction. Regrettably these have been performed by well trained surgeons in accredited facilities. The common identifying risk factor has been combined cosmetic procedures or massive amounts of fat removal. Lesser procedures of shorter duration will prevent this horrific complication. Other described problems with liposuction are wrinkling, unevenness, bruising and asymmetry. Infections have been described but are exceedingly rare. Overall, liposuction is the most common cosmetic procedure performed in the United States and is safe when performed by well trained surgeons who exercise good judgment.