Liposuction is a popular plastic surgery procedure and, as such, it is one that people tend to think they understand. In our patient-centered practice, it is important to us that each patient knows everything they need to know about their procedure. Here, we’ll discuss some of the liposuction questions that often come up during the consultation visit.
Does liposuction hurt?
Liposuction involves the movement of a small, hollow tube through a target area of adipose fat. This motion used to be relatively forceful. That was before the days of the tumescent technique. When performing liposuction, Dr. D’Amico and Dr. Ferrauiola first infuse the area with tumescent fluid. This contains lidocaine that serves as an anesthetic, saline that creates space to dislodge fat more easily, and epinephrine to reduce bleeding. In addition to performing tumescent liposuction, our surgeons also incorporate laser or water to maximize results and minimize tissue trauma.
Will fat target other places on the body after liposuction?
It can be difficult to trust that fat removal will truly achieve permanent results. It can, but you are still an integral determining factor in how long your liposuction results last. Surgical fat reduction is efficient and most liposuction patients are extremely happy with their treatment outcome. That said, the happiest patients are those who maintain an active and healthy lifestyle after their procedure. They understand that their liposuction surgery is not a guarantee of future and ongoing contours, but serves as one part of a broader beauty plan. So, does fat come back to other places of the body after liposuction? No. You will not grow new fat cells. And yes, fat cells anywhere on the body can enlarge if you gain weight. This could sound like bad news, but the good news is that you are in control of your habits and therefore in control of your long-term results after liposuction.
Do I have to be under general anesthesia during liposuction?
You might. Some of the procedures our surgeons perform do involve general anesthesia. You may need this technique if you are combining your liposuction with another technique, such as abdominoplasty or a thigh lift. You may also need general anesthesia if you want multiple areas of the body treated at one time. Your doctor will discuss your surgical details with you after your consultation, during your treatment-planning phase of care.
Does Liposuction tighten the skin?
No. Liposuction, including SmartLipo that utilizes laser energy, targets fat cells. The heat from the laser may cause minor collagen constriction, but patients should not expect profound tissue tightening from this technique. During our consultation, the doctors perform a thorough evaluation of the skin and its elasticity. If the skin exhibits moderate to severe laxity, indicating that it will not bounce back well after surgery, the doctor may suggest a lift to coincide with fat reduction.
Learn more about liposuction and how we can help you enjoy your best body. Contact our Englewood, NJ office at 201.567.9595 to schedule your consultation with Dr. Richard A. D’Amico and Dr. Julie Ferrauiola.
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