Liposuction
As the most popular cosmetic surgery procedure in the U.S., liposuction effectively sculpts the body by removing undesirable fat from target areas that have not responded to diet and exercise. These critical areas include the abdomen, waist, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, chin, cheeks, neck and upper arms. Local anesthesia or general anesthesia may be used, and the procedure can last anywhere from one to five hours depending on the amount of fat being removed.
Liposuction, also referred to as lipoplasty, removes excess body fat through multiple small incisions using suction. While the procedure removes fat, it will not correct the excess skin problems facing many significant weight loss patients. We commonly use liposuction as a complementary technique to the other procedures we offer to achieve desired contour. There are several different methods that surgeons use when performing liposuction, including ultrasound-assisted lipectomy (UAL) and suction-assisted lipectomy (SAL). In both types, fluid is first injected into the area of the body to be treated. A tiny incision is made in a place that is as inconspicuous as possible, and a cannula (small tube) breaks up the fat layer and suctions it out.
FAQ About Liposuction
What are the steps of the Liposuction procedure?
Prior to the procedure, a general anesthetic or sedative will be administered. Small incisions will be made at inconspicuous points near the targeted areas. Sterile solution will be introduced into each of the incisions to minimize bleeding and trauma. A cannula, or thin tube, is placed within each hole and swept back and forth to dislodge the excess fat from the connective tissue. Using a syringe or surgical vacuum, the excess fat is then suctioned up through the cannula and the incisions closed.
Who is an ideal candidate for Liposuction?
While this procedure may be effective for anyone with excess fat, it is designed to be used in conjunction with exercise and proper diet to remove stubborn areas of fat. Ideal candidates for liposuction are non-smokers who exercise regularly, maintain a stable weight, and are well informed about the liposuction procedure and its outcomes.
What happens after the procedure?
Compression garments and elastic bandages are often given to control the swelling that occurs following liposuction. Occasionally it may be necessary to insert small drains in the incisions to remove excess fluids. The swelling should subside after a week, and the bruising after about three weeks. It may be possible to return to work in a few days, and resume normal activities in one to two weeks.
Are there any side effects?
Most of the potential side effects of liposuction involve the appearance of the final body shape and contour. Effective and thorough communication prior to the and following the procedure can help prevent many of these potential problems. In addition, there are a few very rare side effects, including nerve damage, blood clots, scarring, pain, swelling or heart and lung complications. As with any surgery, there is the risk of bleeding, infection and poor wound healing.
Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Feledy to Learn More
Dr. Feledy conveniently maintains offices in Stafford, VA and Chevy Chase, MD. For more information about liposuction or to schedule a personal consultation at either location, contact Dr. Feledy's office at 301-654-5666 or 540-891-0040.
