Liposuction is the tried and true method for the removal of unwanted and disproportionate fat. It is not a method of weight loss, nor is it a substitute for a healthy lifestyle; however, Liposuction can selectively eliminate fat from specific areas that are often resistant to diet and exercise. It is safer, more effective and more reliable than fat dissolving injections. Like everything else in life, it is not perfect, but the risks are well known and should be discussed before deciding whether to proceed with surgery.
Today, I am including several short lists related to Liposuction: advantages, prerequisites and recovery.
The Advantages of Liposuction
Liposuction is the removal of fat via a smooth metal straw. While individual results always vary, in general, the advantages are numerous:
- Small incisions
- Minimal downtime
- Outpatient procedure
- Selective fat removal
- Ability to transfer fat
- Fast recovery
Prerequisites for Liposuction
For the best results a few things are needed for your body to adapt to the results:
- Good health
- Good skin tone
- Disproportionate fat
- Close to your ideal weight
- Realistic expectations
Liposuction Recovery
Liposuction involves removing fat. Unlike other surgeries nothing is cut and sewn together, so there is no repair to protect. The goals of recovery are to:
- Minimize swelling
- Avoid bleeding
- Promote smooth skin contours
- Prevent recurrent fat
- Maintain mobility
In the cases with fat grafting, maximizing the take and shape of the grafting is also important. Sometimes disproportionate fat is harvested with Liposuction and repurposed by grafting it back to specific areas for enhancement. Fat grafting is often used during Facelifts and Brazilian Buttock Lifts, to further enhance the desired contours of the face and body. In these cases, maximizing the take and shape of the grafting is also an important consideration during the recovery process.
Liposuction vs Liposculpture
Liposuction is the removal of fat via suction. A fine cannula is inserted under the skin to vacuum out the unwanted excess fat. If Liposuction is the method, Liposculpture is the technique. Not all fat should be removed. Curves in the right places are desirable.
The idea behind Liposculpture is to create a shape more ideal than a body that has technically had all the fat removed. The goal is to create a more ideal shape. In fact, fat is sometimes moved into areas where more volume is desired. This is often done with Facelifts and Brazilian Butt Lifts as mentioned above.
Liposculpture Consultations
When considering Liposuction, be certain to consult with a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with experience. It is the technician, not the technique that determines the outcome. The best liposuction machine cannot provide the best results without an experienced plastic surgeon who possesses a clear vision of how to reach the goal. For consultations in the greater San Francisco Bay Area, call (925) 943-6353 to schedule your appointment.