Answer: There are many different liposuction techniques currently used today. All liposuction procedures involve the basic or traditional technique in which excess fat is suctioned out; however, this may be combined with a variety of other techniques which are often used to aid in the removal of fat. SmartLipo refers to a technique in which the fat is first liquefied using laser technology. The liquefied fat is then suctioned out with traditional liposuction techniques. The laser may also have the added benefit of promoting tightening of the tissues and skin.

Answer: The fat cells in the areas where liposuction is performed do not return once they have been removed. However, if a patient gains a significant amount of weight after liposuction they may find that they gain weight in other areas of the body.  Liposuction really should not be used as a replacement for diet and exercise. It is best used on individuals who are of normal, steady body weight but are bothered by stubborn areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise, such as the love handles or saddle bags.

Answer: No. This is a misconception that many patients have. Liposuctionis not meant as a weight loss tool, but rather as a tool for improving stubborn areas that are hard to tone with regular diet and exercise. Some patient’s post-liposuction see that their largest areas are now smaller regardless of their diet and exercise; however, overeating and lack of exercise will cause them to gain weight in other areas. To maintain your results, proper diet and exercise are essential after liposuction.

Answer: Liposuction is an excellent body contouring technique for improving the shape of the body and, certainly, it can be used to help create an hourglass shape.

Answer: There are many different techniques currently available for liposuction. While there are pros and cons to each, it's most important that you find a board certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in liposuction and body contouring. All techniques involve the basic or traditional technique of liposuction, with the primary difference being how the fat is prepared or treated prior to its removal. For instance, laser liposuction uses laser energy to first liquefy the fat prior to its removal, tumescent liposuction uses a fluid which is first injected into the fatty tissue to cause it to swell for easier removal, and VASER liposuction uses ultrasound energy. A qualified plastic surgeon can help you to choose the best technique to meet your aesthetic goals.

Answer: Liposuction is intended for the removal of excess fat deposits. It is ideal for individuals who are close to or at normal body weight but are bothered by pockets of excess fat that have proven resistant to diet and exercise, such as the love handles or abdomen. The body lift addresses excess skin as well and is often performed on patients who have lost significant weight and are left with loose or sagging skin.

Answer: After liposuction, we recommend that patients wear a compression bandage for a minimum of one month. This helps to reduce swelling and support and protect the treated area. After one month with no complications, patients can often switch to wearing a Spandex-type garment.

Answer: Liposuction can be performed on many areas of the face and body. On the body, common treatment areas include the arms, abdomen, waist, hips, back, thighs, inner knees, calves and ankles. Liposuction can also be performed on areas of the face like the chin, cheeks and neck. For certain patients, liposuction may also provide an alternative technique for breast reduction with minimal incisions and scars compared with more traditional techniques.

Answer: General anesthesia is commonly used for liposuction. This allows for a safe, comfortable procedure for the patient.

Answer: It's generally recommended that patients first wear a good post-liposuction compression garment after their procedure, and this typically needs to be worn for a minimum of three weeks. This will help to reduce swelling and bruising, minimize the risk of seroma or fluid collection, and help loose skin retract. The commercially available medical compression garments generally provide stronger support and compression and are often easier to put on and take off in the early recovery period, the first two weeks following surgery. As the swelling resolves, patients may be allowed to switch to a more comfortable and practical garment. At that time, a Spanx-type garment that provides some compression but is easier to wear beneath your usual clothes may be sufficient. These "second stage" garments are then worn from between two and six weeks after surgery and beyond.