The best candidate for liposuction is a person who is physically healthy and of normal weight but with areas of excess fat that are resistant to regular diet and exercise. Patients should also be psychologically stable and have realistic expectations of what the procedure can offer. Patients with firm, elastic skin tend to achieve the best results, while older patients with diminished skin elasticity may not achieve the same results as a younger patient.

Liposuction can successfully improve the shape of the body and, like many cosmetic procedures; it may improve one’s self confidence as well. After surgery, you’re likely to discover you’re able to wear a wider variety of clothing than before. Liposuction is not a substitute for regular exercise and a healthy diet. By following a healthy diet and exercise regime, you can help to maintain your liposuction results.

The amount of time needed for liposuction will vary due to several factors, including the amount of fat being removed, the technique used, and the size of the area being treated. In general, however, liposuction typically takes between one and two hours to complete. The procedure is commonly performed on an outpatient basis and typically involves either local anesthesia, general anesthesia, or an epidural.

The procedure begins with small incisions made on the areas of the body being treated. A narrow, blunt-tipped tube called a cannula is then inserted through these incisions. The cannula is manipulated by the surgeon, disrupting the fat cells before they are suctioned out. The incisions are then stitched closed.

There are several fairly new liposuction techniques which are able to improve the procedure and enhance the outcome. For ultrasound-assisted liposuction, or UAL, an ultrasound probe is inserted beneath the skin to liquefy the fat before it is suctioned out. For tumescent liposuction, large volumes of a fluid containing saline and lidocaine are injected into the fatty tissues, making them swollen and firm, before they are suctioned out. Both of these techniques offer several benefits over traditional liposuction, including quicker recovery times and more precise results, though the surgical times can be significantly longer.

After surgery, you may experience some discomfort, pain, stiffness, burning or temporary numbness. Fluid drainage from the incisions, swelling and bleeding is also common. A small drainage tube may be temporarily placed at the incision sites to prevent fluid build-up.

The beautify.com surgeron will prescribe pain medication to help with any pain or discomfort that you feel, as well as antibiotics to prevent infection. Patients should start walking around as soon as possible, or as recommended, to help prevent blood clots in the legs.

A compression garment similar to a girdle is typically worn for several weeks to support the skin and control swelling. Stitches are typically removed within seven to ten days. Most of the swelling and bruising subsides within three weeks, though some slight swelling can persist for more than six months. You will notice an immediate change in the shape of your body after surgery, though the final results will be apparent when all of the swelling has completely faded. Many of the newer techniques, such as UAL and tumescent liposuction, typically involve a decrease in post-operative bruising and swelling.

The amount of time it takes to recover after liposuction will vary for each patient. Generally, most patients are able to return to work within a few days after surgery, though more strenuous activity will need to be postponed for two to four weeks. Any unusual symptoms, such as sudden pain or heavy bleeding should be immediately reported to the surgeon

All surgery carries some degree of risk. The beautify.com surgeon will discuss with you the specific risks and complications associated with your liposuction procedure. Because there are certain factors which can increase your risk of complications, inform your surgeon of any medical conditions that you have, if you smoke, if you are on any medications, and if you have had any previous surgeries on or near the site(s) being treated. Also, by carefully following the pre and post surgery instructions provided by your surgeon and his/her staff can greatly reduce any chance of risk or complication.