Photo Gallery: Liposuction
Why Consider Liposuction?
Liposuction can remove stubborn fat deposits anywhere on the body that do not respond to diet and exercise. This procedure is thought to be the gold standard for erasing lumps and bumps from the arms, back stomach and thighs. Liposuction can shape a better body overall and can be maintained with proper diet and exercise. The procedure slims and reshapes the area for a smooth, firm contour and a better-proportioned body. When diet and exercise seem like a long shot for getting rid of unwanted weight, liposuction may be the next best solution. The best liposuction candidates are those at, or near, their goal weight yet still have problem areas they want to address. Liposuction can be performed alone or in conjunction with other plastic surgery procedures.
How Liposuction Is Performed
This surgical procedure is highly individualized. During the procedure, small incisions are made in or near the area to be suctioned before inserting a surgical tool known as a cannula to vacuum out fat beneath the skin. In some instances, incisions can be small enough not to require any stitches. The length of surgery can typically range from one to three hours, depending on the areas treated, technique, amount of fat to be removed and type of anesthesia. There are essentially four liposuction techniques:
- Traditional - the surgical suctioning of excess fat deposits
- Tumescent or Super Wet - requires an infusion of a saline solution with added adrenaline and possibly an anesthetic, to remove excess fat
- Ultrasound-Assisted (UAL) - ultrasonic energy is used to liquefy excess fat
- Laser-Assisted - Laser energy is used to liquefy excess fat for removal
Liposuction and Skin Tone
Your skin tone has an influence on the results you can achieve with liposuction. Areas of the body with good skin tone will offer more attractive results following liposuction. Many areas of the body have two layers of fat, a thin superficial layer and a thicker, deep layer. Liposuction is better at removing deep fat because liposuction of superficial fat can lead to skin irregularities and dimpling. In instances where your concerns are superficial fat, then "liposuction lite" is a better treatment. Dr. Case can perform "liposuction lite" with minimal downtime and a quick recovery.
Liposuction vs. "Liposuction Lite"
Do you exercise and feel like you are fit and trim, but still have an annoying spot that is bothering you, then you may want to try 'liposuction lite." This procedure is based on technology that reduces the volume and appearance of fat tissues.
Cellulite and Liposuction
Cellulite is common, most women have it. This unattractive dimpling and puckering of the skin is caused by a combination of fibrous bands and superficial fat. Superficial fat compartments become distended with fat, this is when dimpling occurs. Liposuction typically will not improve cellulite. Patients who want to treat cellulite should consider an option such as Velashape, which is FDA approved to treat cellulite and firm problem areas.
Side Effects & Risks of Liposuction
Common side effects of liposuction include swelling, numbness, soreness, bruising and discomfort that can be managed with pain medication.
The risks associated with this surgery include uneven contours, rippling or loose skin, skin or nerve damage, irregular pigmentation, infection at the incision site, fat clots, blood clots, excessive fluid loss or fluid accumulation. There is also a risk of thermal burn or heat injury from the ultrasound-assisted or laser assisted liposuction. The use of an anesthesia carries risks.
Healing Process from Liposuction
The physician will give instructions on post-operative care for the incisions. Light, normal activity can be resumed when the patient feels ready. Initial wound healing lasts 5 to 10 days, at which time any sutures are removed. Healing will continue for several weeks as swelling subsides and incision lines refine. The final results take 3-6 months to develop.
Liposuction and Stem Cells Offer Natural Benefits in Tucson
Transferring fat to the breasts, buttocks and face is the latest technology. Fat that is removed by liposuction and processed can be used for breast augmentation to moderately increase breast size and can also be used to correct rippling or asymmetry. Interested in enhancing or reshaping the buttock area, you can remove fat from one area of the body where there may be a little too much of it and graft it to the buttocks area. Besides adding shape, contours and definition, the use of fat in the butt may minimize the appearance of cellulite and dimples. Slowing the aging process can also be achieved through the use of advanced liposuction techniques, you can increase volume in the face, texture and skin quality.
Scheduling your Liposuction Consultation In Tucson
Please call Profiles Cosmetic Surgery in Tucson at (520) 888-4540 for more information on liposuction or to schedule a personal consultation.
Patient results may vary