Ask Dr. Elliott: What To Know About Liposuction

Dr-Elliott-photoI am always happy to answer questions about cosmetic surgery that I receive from my patients. After all, cosmetic surgery can often be a complex matter and there is a lot for prospective patients to know while preparing for their procedure. Even surgeries as common as liposuction require considerable preparation in order to help promote the best and longest-lasting aesthetic results. That’s why I have taken time to answer some commonly asked questions about liposuction surgery.

Question #1: Which type of liposuction surgery do you most recommend?

Over the years, many different varieties of liposuction procedures have been introduced and become more commonplace. However, I have always preferred the more traditional surgical approach known as tumescent liposuction. This procedure utilizes a small tool called a micro-cannula that allows for smaller incisions and extremely precise results.

Question #2: Will liposuction also provide skin tightening results?

Tightening loose or stretched skin is not a result that liposuction patients should expect from their surgery. While it’s true that excess fat can lead to the skin becoming stretched, liposuction is only designed to remove fat and not address this skin laxity. Patients interested in tightening their skin may want to combine their liposuction with other body contouring procedures like tummy tuck surgery, a thigh lift, or arm lift surgery depending on the area they are interested in addressing.

Question #3: How can I maintain my liposuction results in the years following my surgery?

I understand that every patient wants their cosmetic surgery results to last. For liposuction patients, I recommend making healthy lifestyle choices like exercising regularly and eating a healthy diet. While it’s true that liposuction will remove fat cells from the treated area, weight gain can lead to new fat accumulation in these areas.

Patient education is a responsibility that I have always taken very seriously. I hope that patients considering liposuction surgery found these answers helpful and informative. For more information on liposuction or to schedule a plastic surgery consultation, please don’t hesitate to contact me, Dr. Franklyn Elliott. You can also follow me on Facebook for additional cosmetic surgery tips, news, and much more.