Liposuction

Liposuction removes unwanted fat from a specific area of the body by drawing particles of fat into the end of a thin, hollow tube.

Liposuction is not a substitute for diet, exercise and a healthy lifestyle. After a patient has achieved his/her desirable body weight there may be areas of fatty tissue that just will not go away. The fat deposits that are ideally treated with liposuction should be discreet, well defined areas that are out of proportion to the rest of the patient's fat layer.

Liposuction of small areas may be performed using local anesthesia and mild sedation. Larger areas are usually treated under general anesthesia. The treatment area is first infiltrated with an anesthetic solution consisting of saline, Lidocaine and adrenaline. The fat in this area is then removed by the movement of the hollow tube or cannula back and forth while the suction is in force. The fat collects in a canister and is discarded. The patient is then placed in a compression garment to reduce swelling.

A typical patient experiences mild to moderate pain for just a few days. She may return to normal activity in a few days and resume exercise in a few weeks. It may take several months to achieve the full effect of the treatment, as it takes time for the skin and soft tissue to shrink into the final configuration.

The complimentary liposuction consultation at the Wetherington Plastic Surgery Center is focused on understanding the goals of the patient, answering questions and recommending a treatment program.