Liposuction is a cosmetic surgical procedure that removes stubborn, unwanted fat. It can be done on its own or in conjunction with another procedure like abdominoplasty. Liposuction can be performed on many parts of the body such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, back, arms and breasts. Liposuction is not designed for weight loss; it is intended to remove fat deposits that haven’t responded to diet or exercise. Our surgeon can remove up to a few pounds of fat during a single procedure. Assuming the patient’s weight does not fluctuate, the effects are permanent.
There are many types of liposuction, but they all involve using a hollow tube called a cannula to break up the unwanted fat and remove it. Tumescent liposuction is an increasingly common type in which the doctor injects the targeted fat with a special solution containing epinephrine, salt water, and lidocaine. It both numbs the area and makes the fat cells swell to three times their size to make them easier to remove. At GSC, tumescent liposuction is combined with external ultrasound and power-assisted liposuction. In the last type, the cannula has a vibrating tip that makes it easier to break up the fat cells.
The procedure typically takes one to three hours. The patient will be given general anesthesia. After surgery, the patient will have to wear a compression garment for up to four weeks to accelerate. They should rest for at least three to four days before returning to work. The doctor will remove their stitches about a week after the procedure. The patient should avoid strenuous activities like exercise or heavy lifting for about three or four weeks.
What Is SmartLipo?
SmartLipo is a type of laser liposuction. The process involves inserting a probe through the cannula. The probe emits a laser that melts the fat cells, which are then gradually flushed out by the body’s natural processes. The laser also reduces bleeding by cauterizing nearby blood vessels. Unlike other liposuction procedures, SmartLipo also tightens the skin. A typical procedure takes about an hour, and the patient will only need to rest for a couple days afterward.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
The ideal candidate will be a healthy adult with realistic expectations who is at their optimal weight or close to it. They should also be at a stable weight. Anybody who is in the midst of losing weight should wait until they have reached their weight loss goals and have maintained a stable weight for some time.
If you’re in the Long Island area, the trusted Dr. Greenberg at Greenberg Cosmetic Surgery can help you find out if liposuction is right for you. Contact us today to schedule your initial consultation and learn more!