Diet and exercise are important but sometimes they simply aren’t enough. Persistent fat deposits can cling to problem areas like your hips, abdomen, buttock or thighs, no matter how much you exercise. If you have areas of fat that won’t go away, liposuction performed by Dr. Lorraine Golosow may be the answer
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction (or suction-assisted lipectomy) is one of the most frequently performed procedures in plastic surgery. During the procedure, fat deposits are removed in order to improve the contours of the body. Although liposuction is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise, it is sometimes the only thing that can remove localized fat deposits that don’t respond to traditional weight loss techniques.
How is it Performed?
During liposuction surgery, a solution consisting of lidocaine, epinephrine, and saline is injected into targeted areas prior to fat removal. This solution provides an anesthetic to decrease pain, reduces blood loss, and helps remove the fat easily. A narrow tube called a cannula is inserted through small incisions made in inconspicuous locations. The cannula breaks up the fatty deposits and suctions out the fat. The time required for liposuction surgery depends on the amount of fat to be removed and the number of areas treated.
Recovery
To control swelling, you may be fitted with an elastic post-surgical garment that you will wear for a few weeks. During the healing period, you are likely to experience some swelling, bruising and mild discomfort. Oral pain medications are provided postoperatively but many patients find that they aren’t necessary. The few stitches that are present will either dissolve or be removed in a week. After your liposuction surgery, Dr. Golosow and her staff will be available to support you and monitor your recovery process.
If you are interested in learning more about liposuction in the Ft. Myers area, contact our office today at 239-939-5233 to schedule a consultation.
Liposuction FAQs
How Dangerous is Liposuction?
Every surgery carries its own risks. Liposuction is no different. With liposuction, there is a possibility of bleeding, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and contour irregularities. Overall, this is a safe procedure that is performed on thousands of people every year. Dr. Golosow will go over all the risks and possible side effects during the consultation appointment.
Does Liposuction Really Work?
Liposuction permanently removes fat cells in a treatment area which helps to contour the body. It is not an overall weight-loss method or a treatment for obesity. Liposuction can be done on its own or in combination with other body contouring methods for optimal results.
How Long Does it Take to Recover From Liposuction?
Depending on how large the treatment area is the recovery period will vary. On average, it takes about two weeks to recover from liposuction. You should be able to return to work after a week of recovery. Dr. Golosow will give you an estimated personal recovery timeline during the consultation.
Can Liposuction Give You a Flat Stomach?
Liposuction is a fat removal procedure. If you are looking to remove small amounts of belly fat, liposuction can be a good fit. Depending on the amount of extra tissue on the stomach, a tummy tuck with liposuction may be needed for optimal results.
Does Fat Come Back After Liposuction?
There is a set number of fat cells in our body, liposuction removes the fat cells from the treatment area. However, it is possible to still gain fat in other areas. It is important to be committed to a healthy lifestyle with a proper diet and exercise routine to maintain the liposuction results.
How Long After Lipo Until I See Results?
Most patients notice some changes immediately after their surgery. However, it can take 3-6 months to see the optimal results. This is dependent on how long the residual swelling lasts in the treatment area.