Liposuction is a quick procedure with relatively little downtime, yet it could forever change the way you view your body. If you think liposuction could be right for you, find out what to expect before you undergo treatment.
Eligibility for Liposuction
You could be a good candidate for liposuction, also known as body contouring, if you meet these recommendations established by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons:
- You are a fully grown adult.
- You are within 30 percent of your ideal weight.
- You have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone.
- You don’t smoke (smoking inhibits the healing process).
- You are in overall good health.
- You have realistic expectations. (Liposuction is not a means of weight loss; it’s designed to remove stubborn fat deposits and sculpt your body into a more desirable shape.)
Liposuction Techniques
While all types of liposuction strive to remove excess body fat, various techniques are available to achieve this goal. Talk to your plastic surgeon about the different options available.
How to Prepare for Liposuction
Before your procedure, your surgeon may recommend that you:
- Remain on a healthy diet and exercise regimen.
- Receive a medical evaluation.
- Start or stop taking certain medications.
- Stop smoking.
The Liposuction Procedure
Many patients achieve the desired results after only one surgery. Each treatment area typically takes 45 minutes to one hour to complete. Depending on the location, your surgeon will recommend general anesthesia or local anesthetics to ensure a pain-free procedure. Thanks to the minimally invasive nature of liposuction, no stitches or sutures are required.
Recovering from Liposuction
While you can expect to return home the same day as the procedure, you should have someone else drive. Expect to experience soreness, bruising and swelling. Most of the discomfort should subside after a few days, though lingering tenderness can last up to eight weeks.
Your surgeon may ask you to wear compression garments and take pain medication for a few days to reduce swelling and make you more comfortable following the surgery. You should also avoid strenuous exercise and hot baths for a few days.
The Results of Liposuction
Remember, liposuction is a contouring procedure designed to create subtle but pleasing changes to the abdomen, thighs, breasts, upper arms, knees or other treatment areas. The fat removed from your body will never grow back, and once you fully recover, this is the new shape your body will hold. However, weight gain can still occur and alter the results. Scarring is also minimal thanks to the tiny incision needed to perform liposuction.
Contact Dr. Mark Schusterman today for an individual consultation on how liposuction can help you be the best you.
