Liposuction

As the human body ages and experiences weight fluctuations, fatty tissue gets deposited in various parts of the body. These problem areas can be difficult to manage even through proper diet and exercise. Liposuction is the process of body contouring by removing fatty tissue from selected portions of the body including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. Artistic and anatomical removal of this tissue can result in an improved appearance and silhouette. Liposuction is not a weight reduction procedure and should not be considered as such.

It is important to understand that liposuction is not a cure for obesity, and is most appropriate for persons with localized fat bulges that are inherited, and remain, despite weight reduction and exercise.

The Surgery

Two to three weeks before your surgery you will visit the office for a history and physical examination. You will be given instructions telling you what to do before and after your surgery. Prescriptions for pain medications and antibiotics will be given to you at this time. These should be filled before your surgery. You must not use aspirin or products containing aspirin for two weeks prior to your surgery. Smoking is strictly prohibited three weeks prior and three weeks after your surgery to avoid serious healing problems. We cannot stress enough how important it is to avoid smoking around the time of your surgery. Photos are also taken prior to the surgery to help you and the doctors gauge the results of your surgery.

During your surgery excess fat is removed through several small incisions. After surgery, you will wear a surgical garment to apply gentle pressure and support to the operative sites. You must avoid heavy lifting or straining after the surgery. It’s necessary that a friend relative or other responsible party stays with you the evening and night of the surgery. It is normal to have some swelling and bruising of the operative sites. The recovery times vary from patient to patient, but typically healing occurs within a few weeks.

Are You a Good Candidate?

To be a good candidate for any plastic surgery, you must have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you. It's important to understand that plastic surgery can enhance your appearance and self confidence but, like all plastic surgery, it is not going to solve underlying emotional issues you may have. Always think carefully about your reasonable expectations and discuss any concerns you have with your surgeon.

This is a safe and commonly performed procedure, but like all surgery, complications can occur.

The best candidates for liposuction are normal-weight people with firm, elastic skin who have pockets of excess fat in certain areas. You should be physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in your expectations. Age is not a major consideration; however, older patients may have diminished skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results as a younger patient with tighter skin.

Next Steps

All successful surgeries begin with open and honest communication between doctor and patient. Are you considering plastic surgery? Please contact our staff at Sarasota Plastic Surgery and let us educate you about your options and the procedures available. We want you to understand all the possibilities even if you choose not to undergo surgery at our facility. Contact us at 941.256.3938 or use the form on this page to start this potentially life changing experience today.