Educating and reassuring my patients about the plastic surgery procedures that I perform is a responsibility that I take very seriously. And one tool that I’ve found incredibly useful in this regard over the years is presenting frequently asked questions (or FAQs) on common plastic surgery topics like liposuction surgery. If you’re thinking that liposuction is simple and there isn’t much to know, you’d be mistaken. Check out the questions and answers below for a great starter guide on what any patient should know before considering undergoing liposuction.
Who Is Liposuction Surgery Designed to Help?
Liposuction is used to help patients who feel self-conscious or unsatisfied with their appearance due to excess fat in various areas of the body. In many cases, this is what I call stubborn or diet-resistant fat, because it often cannot be shed with normal lifestyle adjustments or weight loss plans. Liposuction can be performed on areas all over the body including the abdomen, sides (flanks), back, upper arms, neck (double chin), and thighs.
Is Liposuction Only For People Who Are Overweight?
No, though this is a very persistent falsehood. As we age, small pockets of fat can accumulate in areas all over the body. This is even true for people who are otherwise fit or in good shape, regardless of their diet and exercise habits.
How Is Liposuction Performed?
During the procedure, I will use a thin tube known as a cannula that is safely inserted underneath the skin. Once inserted, this can help loosen or dislodge fat cells in the treatment area. Once loosened, this excess fat is suctioned out using a medical vacuum. Any fat removed during liposuction will not return naturally. However, you can gain weight and increase fat (in other areas) after this procedure.
How Long Does Liposuction Surgery Take?
This depends on the specific case, which liposuction method is being performed, which area(s) are being treated, and how much fat will need to be removed. But patients can typically expect for a liposuction procedure to take between 2-3 hours.
What Can I Expect When Recovering After Liposuction Surgery?
Recovery after liposuction is pretty straightforward. Some degree of discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treated area will occur after the procedure. These effects can be minimized with pain medications and swelling-reducing compression garments. In most cases, patients will need about a week before going back to school or work. Waiting 2 to 3 weeks is recommended before resuming light exercise (but not running or heavy lifting). It can take a few weeks before the remaining fat settles into a normal position following liposuction.
There’s a good reason why liposuction has been so in-demand with both men and women for so long. It is a trustworthy and proven method for reducing unwanted fat, and the patient satisfaction rate following the procedure is extremely high. If you would like to learn more about liposuction surgery, or if you would like to schedule a complimentary plastic surgery consultation, please contact me, Dr. David Whiteman, at Southern Plastic Surgery today. You can also follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for additional plastic surgery tips, news, and so much more.
