LIPOSUCTION
Sometimes referred to as “lipo” this cosmetic surgical procedure helps to reshape specific areas of the body by removing excess fat deposits, thus improving a patient’s overall body contour. Liposuction techniques may be used to reduce localized fat deposits of the thighs, hips, buttocks, abdomen and waist, upper arms, back, inner knee, chest area, cheeks, chin and neck.
Have questions regarding whether liposuction is right for you? The best way to have this question answered is by getting scheduled with Dr. Villalobos in order to discuss possible treatment options. During the consultation, photographs will be taken for your medical record, a thorough examination will be performed, and further discussion regarding the surgical procedure and alternative options will be provided.
What Is Liposuction?
Simply put, liposuction is an outpatient operation used to remove pockets of fat. It works by suctioning out fat tissue, almost like a vacuum cleaner. That said, liposuction is not a weight loss procedure; it’s meant for contouring the body and enhancing your shape in targeted areas.
Lipo can be used to accomplish fat removal in areas like the:
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Hips
- Thighs
- Upper arms
- Knees
- Back
- Neck
- Chin
- Chest
Here at the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery, we also offer a specialized Lipo 360 approach, specifically designed to target six regions of stubborn fat in the midsection: the upper abdomen, lower abdomen, left flank, right flank, left upper back, and right upper back.Good Candidates for Liposuction
Ideal liposuction patients are close to their target weight and in generally good health, but struggle with localized fat deposits that haven’t responded to diet and exercise. Patients should have realistic expectations, understand the limits of fat removal, and be committed to maintaining their results with a healthy lifestyle.
The Procedure
During the operation, tiny incisions — each about the size of a mosquito bite — are made in two to three locations on each treatment area. Then a mix of numbing and bleeding reduction medications is placed in the area through the incisions.
Usually, tumescent fluid is inserted and fat is removed in a 1:1 ratio, meaning if two pounds of fat are taken out, two pounds of the medication mix would be put in. This is called the tumescent liposuction technique. It numbs everything, making surgery possible while the patient is awake.
SmartLipo™ enhances this process by using a laser to gently heat and dissolve the fat, which also stimulates skin tightening. Next, the fat is removed using liposuction cannulas. Following the procedure, small pieces of tape are placed over the incisions beneath gauze and a compression garment.
The Recovery Process
After liposuction, patients can return to work in just a few days, although this depends on the amount of fat removed and the number of areas treated. Mild soreness is expected and usually lasts for the first two weeks of recovery. Massaging the areas can occur 2-3 weeks after surgery in order to achieve the best results and alleviate built-up fluid.
A good amount of swelling is completely normal and part of the healing process. A compression garment is worn for about six weeks, during which the swelling recedes. Bruising is present for about 7-10 days post-op.
Benefits of Liposuction
SmartLipo™ helps tighten skin as fat is removed
Targets and removes stubborn fat
Enhances body contours and shape
Quick recovery with long-lasting results
Can be combined with other aesthetic procedures
Gallery
Procedure:Liposuction
Age:19
Gender:Female
Amount of Fat Removed:4lbs
Post-Op Photos Taken:2 months
This patient is a 19 year old woman from Stockport, Ohio (Near Parkersburg, West Virginia) who wanted plastic surgery to her abdomen. During the plastic surgery consultation at the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery, she decided to have liposuction surgery. Dr. Bivik Shah discussed traditional liposuction and Smartlipo® with the patient. At the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery, we have both the Smartlipo® and traditional liposuction. This means that we will use what is best for the patient! The pictures are 2 months after surgery and we removed 4 pounds of fat. The scars from liposuction are about the size of a pencil eraser, and are hidden by her clothing.