Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure used to remove localized areas of fat from the body through a small thin tube called a cannula. The fat from the targeted area is suctioned from the body through this tube to help patients achieve a slim and balanced appearance.
While the conventional liposuction procedure was effective in removing excessive fat deposits, it was a painful procedure that involved suctioning out large areas of solid fat. New technology has allowed for different techniques that improve the accuracy and reduce the pain associated with this procedure. Today, liposuction is usually performed via the tumescent technique or with the help of ultrasound imaging or a laser. New technologies have transformed liposuction into a much safer and less invasive procedure.
Candidates
The ideal candidate for liposuction is someone who is in good overall health and maintains a healthy lifestyle, but has one or more problem areas with unresponsive fat deposits. It is also important for patients to have realistic expectations, and remember that liposuction cannot be used as a means for major weight loss. Liposuction is used to remove localized areas of stubborn fat after the patient has attempted natural weight loss methods. This procedure may be performed alone or can be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift, breast reduction or tummy tuck in order to achieve maximum results.
Procedure
There are several different techniques currently available for patients seeking liposuction treatment. New technologies have improved the accuracy of this procedure for both patient and doctor allowing patients to achieve their desired results through a much less invasive procedure. Liposuction is performed through a tumescent technique and may also include the assistance of ultrasound imaging or laser energy.
Liposuction is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Dr. Kurtzman will make several tiny incisions and inject a local anesthetic into the area to help expand and firm the fat making it easier to remove. The cannula is then inserted through the incisions to suction out the fat. No stitches are needed after liposuction since the incisions are small enough to heal on their own.
In laser-assisted tumescent liposuction, a laser is used to liquefy the targeted fat before it is removed allowing for an easier and less painful removal. The laser may also be used to tighten skin in the treated area after fat is removed. Similarly, ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses ultrasound energy to liquify fat before it is removed for a smoother process.
Recovery and Results
After the liposuction procedure, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising and discomfort in the treated area. Compression garments or elastic bandages may be used to help reduce these symptoms while the area heals. Patients can return to work and other regular activities as soon as they feel comfortable which is usually after a few days. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks.
Dr. Kurtzman will give you special instructions on how to care for your treated area and reduce any complications after the procedure. The results of the liposuction procedure may not be visible until after swelling and bruising subside. This recovery may take several months and the results will appear gradually throughout this time. The results of liposuction can be permanent as long as patients maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. If substantial weight is gained after this procedure the results may be altered.
Risks
Although liposuction is considered safe, there are certain risks associated with any type of procedure. Some of these risks may include infection, scarring, allergic reactions, hematoma or unsatisfactory results. Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures and is almost always performed with no serious complications. Potential risks can be minimized by choosing an experienced doctor and being compliant by following the doctor’s instructions provided before and after your procedure.