LIPOSUCTION (SUCTION LIPECTOMY)
Liposuction is a procedure that can sculpt the body by reducing the size of areas with excess fat, including the hips, thighs, buttocks, abdomen, upper arms, and neck. It can address areas that do not respond well to weight loss or exercise, but it is not a weight reduction surgery. The best candidates for liposuction are patients with good skin tone (elasticity), who have areas of excess fat in localized regions. It may be performed on several areas of the body at the same time, and it can be combined with other procedures.
Initial Consultation for Liposuction Procedure
During your initial consultation with Dr. Hyman, he will discuss with you your objectives and expectations from surgery. This will include a complete medical history, and an examination of the skin and soft tissue of the areas of concern. Dr. Hyman will suggest a procedure that suits you best and answer any questions that you might have.
Liposuction Procedure
Liposuction is performed using the tumescent technique, in which fluid containing a saline solution, lidocaine (a local anesthetic) and epinephrine (helps to contract blood vessels and limit blood loss), is injected subcutaneously prior to the removal of fat. This method allows fat to be removed more easily, reduces blood loss, and provides anesthesia both during and after surgery. The scars from the incision used for liposuction are small (less than 1 cm), and are placed in locations that are hidden from view. Through these incisions a narrow tube or cannula is inserted and used to vacuum the fat layer deep beneath the skin.
Liposuction takes between 1 and 3 hours to perform depending upon the number and size of the areas to be treated. The surgery is performed in Dr. Hyman’s private ambulatory surgery facility. In cases where very large volumes of fat are removed, an overnight stay in the hospital for observation may be required. Local anesthesia alone may be sufficient for small areas, but most patients are more comfortable with a combination of local anesthesia and sedation provided by an anesthesiologist.
Post Liposuction Surgery
Following surgery, you may experience some drainage of fluid from the incisions that could last for 1-2 days. A compression garment is placed immediately following the procedure and must be worn at all times for two weeks and then at night for another four weeks. Dr. Hyman will measure you and order the appropriate size garment for you prior to surgery. Purchasing two garments will allow you to wear one while washing the other. You will be encouraged to walk the day following surgery, but heavy exercise should be avoided for three weeks. Most patients have moderate bruising which resolves within 3-4 weeks. You should anticipate remaining out of work for 3-4 days after surgery depending upon the amount of liposuction that was performed.
How Do I Get Started?
Dr. Hyman and his staff will be happy to discuss this procedure with you. Please feel free to call for a private consultation with Dr. Hyman, or you can request an appointment online.