Liposuction
Performed by Dr. Elliott in Atlanta GA
Just a thank you for the wonderful job you did on my lipo many years ago. There is not a day that goes by that I do not silently thank you for making such a great change in my body and my happiness with it. Clothes fit and look good – I feel “normal” as a result. –P.C.
Board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Franklyn Elliott has been performing liposuction since its introduction to the cosmetic surgery world in the 1980s. According to the 2012 report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, liposuction is the third most popular cosmetic procedure for both men and women in the United States. There are many types of liposuction, including power-assisted, ultrasonic-assisted, laser-assisted, and tumescent liposuction. Dr. Elliott has tested these various methods through the years, finding that they require more expensive, complex instrumentation that has not been proven to have better results or lesser complications. He prefers to perform tumescent liposuction using a small micro-cannula that allows for smaller incisions, precise body contouring, and predictably successful results.
When the cannula is inserted into the deeper layer of fat beneath the skin, the fat cells are suctioned out safely and efficiently. By utilizing this advanced technique, Dr. Elliott lessens the risk of surgical problems by eliminating the necessity for supplementary equipment and surgical time. Liposuction can be performed on many areas of the body, from the abdomen and thighs to smaller areas such as the ankles, inner knees, and under the chin.
Liposuction can also be used in fat transfer procedures to remove unwanted fat from an area of the body. The fat is then purified and re-injected into another area of the body to add volume in a more natural way. Most often, fat is removed from the abdomen, buttocks, or thighs before re-injection to the breasts or face for youthful fullness. This is especially beneficial for patients who desire long-lasting, natural-looking results.
Am I a good candidate for liposuction?
Realistic expectations and recognizing that liposuction is not a replacement for a healthy lifestyle are essential qualities candidates must keep in mind prior to their procedure. As a general rule, candidates should be non-smoking and within reasonable range of their ideal weight with adequate skin elasticity and muscle tone for proper healing.
What happens if I gain weight after liposuction?
If weight gain occurs after the procedure, fat cells can enlarge in another area of the body rather than the areas where liposuction was performed. While the fat cells permanently taken out by liposuction are unable to return to the exact area, if the patient gains a substantial amount of weight, fat cells can expand in the surrounding areas and redevelop in the liposuctioned area.
What should I anticipate during liposuction?
Dr. Elliott will mark the target areas where fat is to be removed before administering various forms of sedation or anesthetic to provide the patient with optimal comfort. Then, Dr. Elliott will make a small incision for the cannula, moving it back and forth to suction fat out.
What can I expect to see after liposuction?
It is important to allow for adequate recovery time, which will be discussed by Dr. Elliott during your personalized consultation. After healing is complete, you can expect to see a reduction in fat in the liposuctioned areas as well as a more sculpted, proportionate appearance.
