Liposuction removes excess fat deposits from the body to slim and reshape certain areas. It is currently one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States. Patients usually opt for the procedure to improve body contours and proportion in body areas resistant to fat loss from exercise and diet.
PATIENTS IDEAL FOR LIPOSUCTION
Specific localized fat deposits that do no respond to traditional weight loss and fitness regimens are generally due to genetics. When all other efforts fail, liposuction is a safe way to eliminate them. The ideal candidate is healthy, exercises on a regular basis and is about 10 to 15 pounds overweight in a specific area. Due to the ability to regain weight in areas post treatment, patients should avoid unhealthy habits and crash diets after liposuction.
LIPOSUCTION PROCEDURES
Liposuction removes fat from the body with suction. A thin cannula tube is inserted to the body via tiny cuts in areas where fat loss is desired. The fat deposits are suctioned out while the physician moves the tube beneath the skin. One of the most common procedures is tumescent liposuction.
Tumescent liposuction:
The area of the body where the tube enters is numbed with a local anesthetic. A solution containing lidocaine and epinephrine is injected into the fatty tissue prior to the procedure. This “wetting solution” creates a balanced sal solution, which shrinks or constricts blood vessels. Doing so reduces post-surgical pain and bleeding.
Other forms and terms include:
Suction assisted liposuction (SAL): traditional liposuction with a higher vacuum
Power assisted liposuction (PAL): SAL plus an additional tool for cannula motion; may speed fat removal
Ultrasound assisted liposuction (UAL): a tool transmits energy to loosen and melt fat
Laser assisted liposuction (LAL): new technology toted to work like ultrasound (Smartlipo, Slimlipo, etc.)
TREATMENT AREAS
- Abdomen (upper and lower)
- Thighs (outer and inner)
- Hips and buttocks
- Waist (love handles)
- Inner knees, calves and ankles
- Arms (upper)
- Neck
- Breast tissue (men)
To determine the best course of action and the risks of liposuction, consult with a board certified physician.