Liposuction continues to be one of the most popular cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States—and for good reason. When diet and exercise aren’t enough to address stubborn pockets of fat, liposuction offers a safe and effective way to sculpt your body and achieve a more refined silhouette.
What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a body contouring procedure designed to remove localized fat deposits from areas that are resistant to traditional weight-loss methods. It is not a weight-loss solution, but rather a precise technique to enhance your natural shape.
Some of the most common treatment areas include:
- Abdomen and flanks (love handles)
- Thighs (inner and outer)
- Hips and buttocks
- Arms
- Back
- Neck and under the chin
In many cases, liposuction can be combined with other procedures such as a tummy tuck or breast procedures to achieve more comprehensive results.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
Ideal candidates for liposuction are men and women who are at or near their goal weight but have areas of fat that don’t respond to diet and exercise. Good skin elasticity is important for optimal results, as the skin will need to conform to the body’s new shape after fat removal.
Candidates should be healthy non-smokers with realistic expectations. During a personal consultation, we’ll evaluate your goals and anatomy to determine whether liposuction is the best option for you.
The Procedure
In my practice, liposuction is performed under general anesthesia. Small incisions are made near the targeted areas, and a thin tube called a cannula is used to gently break up and suction out the fat.
Advanced techniques such as tumescent liposuction and power-assisted liposuction allow for more precise fat removal, less trauma to surrounding tissues, and quicker recovery times.
Recovery and Results
Recovery from liposuction is generally straightforward. Most patients return to work and light activities within a few days, although some swelling and bruising are expected in the first 1–2 weeks. A compression garment is usually worn to support healing and minimize swelling.
While some results are visible almost immediately, final results typically become apparent within 2 to 3 months as swelling continues to subside.
With a healthy lifestyle, your results can be long-lasting. It’s important to note that liposuction removes fat cells from the treated areas permanently—but gaining weight can still affect your overall body contour.
Confidence in Your Choice
As a board-certified plastic surgeon, I take a personalized approach to each liposuction procedure. I believe that thoughtful planning, attention to detail, and honest communication are the foundation for beautiful and natural-looking results.
If you’re considering liposuction and want to learn more, I invite you to schedule a consultation at my office. Together, we can discuss your goals and explore the best ways to help you feel more confident in your skin.
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