What Happens During Liposuction?
Liposuction, one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world according to the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, reshapes areas of the body by removing excess fat deposits. The desire for shapely contour and a more equally proportionate appearance often encourages patients to seek treatment on stubborn fat pockets on the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, and even places as small as the ankles and inner knee. Addressing these seemingly insignificant areas of fat can enhance the self-image of the patient, an imperative objective of cosmetic surgery for board certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon Dr. Franklyn Elliott.
Commonly, people inquire as to how liposuction works. While techniques vary from surgeon to surgeon, Dr. Elliott prefers the tumescent liposuction method using a solution of local anesthetic and saline and a small micro-cannula that allows for smaller incisions. When the cannula is inserted into the layer of fat beneath the skin and above the muscle, the fat cells are suctioned out safely and efficiently. By utilizing this technique, Dr. Elliott minimizes the risk of surgical complications in order to achieve a new, more contoured aesthetic. There are other methods of liposuction, such as laser assisted or power assisted, but these techniques have not been shown to be more effective or have less complications or recovery time. However, they are more expensive and are heavily marketed.
Dr. Elliott likes to remind patients that liposuction is not a solution for weight loss. Gaining weight after liposuction is just as possible as it can be before liposuction: Eating more calories than you burn can cause weight gain, as can lack of physical activity. However, if weight gain occurs after liposuction, fat cells will generally increase in another area of the body rather than the areas where liposuction was performed. Despite fat cells being removed from the liposuctioned area, it is important to remain conscious of healthy living and maintain a healthy weight. Depending on skin elasticity, which often decreases as age increases, skin should shrink back to the size following the procedure.
If you are interested in liposuction or other body contouring services, please contact our office today to schedule a consultation. Connect with Dr. Elliott on Facebook, Twitter, and Google + for the latest cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery news and information.