Liposuction plastic surgery

What is it, what results to expect, and how much will it cost?

Liposuction (also known by its technical names lipoplasty and suction-assisted lipectomy) is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures. When it is not possible to get rid of excess fat in the body through diet and exercise, liposuction is an excellent alternative. Most doctors recommend that you must make your best efforts to lose weight through diet and exercise first and only then undergo lipo.  (Related article:  Liposuction for men)

What happens during the procedure?

During liposuction, the surgeon removes deposits of excess fat from specific areas of the body. The procedure can slim hips and thighs, flatten the abdomen, shape the calves and ankles, and eliminate a double chin. Liposuction is well suited for women and men who are of relatively normal weight but have isolated pockets of fat. In other words, liposuction is not a weight-loss mechanism.
 

Dr. Sam Speron, plastic surgery expert and consumer advocate says, “While it is possible to undergo liposuction at almost any age, best results will be obtained if the skin still has enough elasticity to achieve a smooth contour following fat removal. The recent emphasis on being conservative and the subsequent drop in mortality suggested by new research, has helped to reassure the public that they can again feel confident about the safety of liposuction.  (Related article:  Liposuction or tummy tuck?)

What do you need to know about liposuction?

According to Dr. Speron, significant complications from liposuction done by a board-certified, experienced plastic surgeon are infrequent. But it is to be noted that after all it is a surgical procedure and one should be aware of potential risks. A new procedure, called stand-up liposuction, can be done without general anesthesia, though.

  • Results of liposuction are permanent, as long as the patient maintains the postoperative weight. Thus, your surgeon will give you tips on how to eat the healthy way and what kind of exercises are good for you. You might also want to have a personal trainer and dietitian to help you out.
  • The patient is usually able to return to work in a few days.
  • Every surgery carries some risk. Potential complications still include bleeding, infection, poor healing, and reaction to anesthesia.
  • Liposuction is not a substitute for overall weight loss, and is not an effective treatment for cellulite.
  • Healing is gradual.  Fluid retention and swelling following surgery may delay the appearance of a slimmer contour. Swelling usually subsides a week or so following surgery, while bruising can last three weeks or longer.  (Related:  Body contouring surgery risks)
  • Because of individual factors, results of liposuction always vary. In other words, while looking at before and after photos is helpful and hearing stories of patients can give you an idea, but the changes that you will see in your own body can only be known after you undergo the procedure.

How much does liposuction cost?

While each individual's personal situation will determine the cost, according to ASPS, liposuction should cost around US$2,000.

Related articles:  Plastic surgery without anesthesia    Liposuction under local anesthesia

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