 Liposuction
is the most commonly performed cosmetic procedure in the United States.
Since it was first introduced in the United States in the 1980’s, many
refinements have been made
(more
on the history of Liposuction).
The most significant improvement was the use of dilute local anesthetic
instead of general anesthesia, which was invented by a dermatologic surgeon,
Dr. Klein. This is referred to as the Klein tumescent technique
(more
on comparison of different liposuction techniques).
With
liposuction surgery,
both men and
women can improve the contours of their bodies through a relatively simple
and safe technique. Liposuction surgery involves the removal of fat cells
from the body. It is designed for those who have specific areas of
localized fat deposits and who have tried unsuccessfully to eliminate them
through diet, exercise and weight loss.
While the procedure is not designed to correct general obesity, any area
where excess fat deposits have accumulated can be treated. These include
the chin, neck, jowls, cheeks, arms, inner and outer thighs, buttocks,
knees, hips and abdomen. Men with
enlarged breasts
can
also benefit from this technique.
Before Surgery
Prior to surgery, a complete medical history is taken in order to
evaluate the general health of the patient. The procedure is almost always
performed under local anesthesia.
The Procedure
The "tumescent" procedure is used where a large amount of diluted local
anesthetic is injected into the area. This procedure has the advantage of
reducing pain and bruising in the area. The physician then makes a small
incision in the skin and inserts a micro cannula attached to a vacuum suction.
This is a new method, where the size of the cannula used are so small that
the procedure is made more safe, with less down time and more consistent
results. The liquified fat is then removed from the body by suction. After the
incisions are closed, a compressive dressing or bandage is applied to the
area to prevent bleeding, reduce swelling and support the affected area.
Following Surgery
A compression garment is worn for about one week following the surgery.
Foll owing
surgery, pain is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication.
Antibiotics are prescribed to prevent infection. Most patients are
completely ambulatory immediately following surgery but rest is recommended
for the initial postoperative period. Patients are usually able to
return to normal activities within a few days although vigorous physical
activity is discouraged immediately following surgery.
Who is a potential candidate?
Most patients have localized fat deposits and some of our happiest patients
are within twenty to thirty pounds of their ideal weight, and have been
stable at that weight for years. Some patients have certain bulges
irrespective of their weight and others are content with their weight, but
would be more comfortable if certain bulges were recontoured. The best
candidates for liposuction are in good health and have realistic
expectations of the benefits of liposuction.
Areas treated by
tumescent liposuction with before and after photos:
Liposuction
of the neck
Liposuction
of the abdomen
Liposuction
of the jowls
Liposuction
of the back
Liposuction
of the male chest
Liposuction for men
Liposuction
of the male flanks
Liposuction
of the female sides
Liposuction
of the female thighs
Liposuction
of the female buttocks
Liposuction
of the ankles and knees
Liposuction
of the arms
Liposuction
of the female breasts
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