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Liposuction is the most common plastic surgery procedure. Often used in conjunction with other plastic surgery techniques, liposuction removes pockets of fat from troublesome areas such as the thighs, hips, abdomen, and upper arms. Liposuction procedures vary depending on what your ultimate cosmetic goal is, and whether you are combining liposuction with other plastic surgery procedures. Many Americans misunderstand or have only a vague concept of liposuction. Liposuction Procedure The time required to perform liposuction may vary considerably, depending on the size of the area, the amount of fat being removed, the type of anesthesia administered and the technique used. Before the procedure begins, you will be given an anesthetic, which varies based on the degree of fat being removed and the type of liposuction being performed. The anesthesia may only be locally applied or you may require a general application in which case the surgery will be done while you are sleeping. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the liposuction procedure is performed. Regardless of the specific area being treated, the technique used is generally the same. A small incision is made in a natural crease of the skin, or some other inconspicuous place. A hollow, pen-like device, called a canula, is inserted into the skin and is used to suck out the excess fat. In some cases an ultrasonic probe might be used to break up the fat into small pieces before it is removed with the canula. A newer technique being used, called the tumescent technique, forces extreme amounts of water into the fat prior to vacuuming it out, which makes hard fatty deposits easier to remove. Depending on the extensiveness of the surgery, liposuction may be an outpatient or inpatient procedure. The Best Candidates for Liposuction In order to be a good candidate for liposuction, you must have realistic expectations about what the procedure can do for you. It is important to understand that liposuction can enhance your appearance and self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal or cause other people to treat you differently. Before deciding to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your plastic surgeon. The best candidates for liposuction are normal-weight people with firm, elastic skin who have pockets of excess fat in certain areas. You should also 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. In addition, liposuction can carry a greater risk if you have medical problems such as diabetes, significant heart or lung disease, poor blood circulation, or those who have recently had surgery near the area to be contoured. It is important to be fully prepared for liposuction. If you are a good candidate, consult your board certified plastic surgeon in Oak Brook, Hinsdale and Naperville today for further examination. Remember, liposuction is not for everyone, but your plastic surgeon will be able to determine the best solution for you.
Sean Hartmen writes for board certified plastic surgeon in Naperville, IL, Oak Brook and Hinsdale, Dr. Alexandria Saulis. Dr. Saulis is on staff at three Chicago area hospitals and earned her MD from the Northwestern University School of Medicine in Chicago. Dr. Saulis offers procedures including breast augmentation, breast augmentation and Liposuction in Naperville.
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