Liposuction, also known as "lipo", is one of the most effective procedures to help sculpt and shape the body by removing stubborn subcutaneous fat. Although liposuction is not a weight loss procedure, it can help define and enhance certain parts of the figure in areas with excess fat tissue. The most common areas for liposuction are the abdomen, flanks, thighs, and arms. Other areas include under the chin, armpits, male breasts (gynecomastia), knees, calves, and buttock.
If you have stubborn deposits of fat that have been exercise- or diet-resistant, then liposuction might be a good choice for you. It is important to remember liposuction is not a weight loss procedure but rather a procedure to target difficult fat deposits in certain problem areas. Patients choosing liposuction are usually around their ideal weight or slightly above. Significantly overweight patients or patients with a significant amount of loose skin are generally not good candidates for liposuction alone and may desire a tummy tuck or circumferential body lift.
Quality of skin is another important factor in determining if liposuction is right for you. Thin skin, large amounts of excess skin, or skin damaged by stretch marks can make it difficult for the skin to contract after fat tissue is removed, which can leave the area looking more deflated rather than tight and contoured. Depending on how much lose skin there is, BodyTite may be recommended or other body contouring procedures in addition to liposuction may be more beneficial to reach your desired result. During your consultation, Dr. Stiller can help you determine what procedures are best suited for you and your goals.
Liposuction is typically performed in these areas:
Dr. Stiller uses the tumescent technique, where a saline solution containing a local anesthetic is injected into the targeted fat cells before liposuction to numb the area, loosen fatty tissue, and minimize bruising. Small incisions, around ¼ inch in length, are made in the areas being treated. Dr. Stiller attempts to place the incisions in areas that are not noticeable. For example, natural body creases, the belly button, pubic area, or under the chin. A tube called a cannula, connected to a suction device, is then inserted to suction out the fat and liquid. After Dr. Stiller feels the area is properly contoured and defined, bandages are put in place for natural healing. The incisions are often left open to help excess fluid drain.
For your Cosmetic Surgery, cash pay procedures, your surgery will be performed at our own on-site AAAASF accredited surgery center at our Stiller Aesthetics office. Our operating room is fully equipped with the latest state-of-the-art equipment.
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure, so after a short period of recovery time, you will go home the same day. Recovery after liposuction can vary between patients however, most patients recover very well. When you wake up from surgery, you will be in a compression garment which we advise to wear the first 2 weeks all the time followed by 2 more weeks during times of activity. You can expect bruising, swelling and a feeling of tightness for about 2-3 weeks. Most patients can return to work in 2-3 days, unless you have had multiple areas treated. In those cases, you may need one or two weeks off. It can take up to 3 months for a majority of the swelling to subside.
You will be provided with detailed post-operative instructions upon completion of your procedure. If at any time you should have any questions or concerns after surgery, please contact our practice immediately.
Swelling can last from 1-3 months, depending on the areas you had treated. As the swelling improves, you’ll be able to fully see your more defined shape. Results will continue to improve as your skin tightens down to its new contour.
The most important thing is how you feel. If your goals have been met, then your Liposuction was a success. Continuing a healthy diet and exercise plan is important to maintain your results.
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