Liposuction

BODY CONTOURING

(Liposuction)

Understanding Body Contouring (Liposuction)

Body contouring, or liposuction, removes fat cells beneath the skin in order to shape areas of the body. The surgery can be performed nearly anywhere on the body and has proven particularly effective in the abdomen, waist, hips, and thighs. It can also be used on the arms, buttocks and knees.

Who Is A Candidate for Body Contouring (Liposuction)?

The ideal candidate for body contouring is the individual who has specific areas of fat deposits and has tried unsuccessfully to eliminate them through diet, exercise, and/or weight loss. This procedure is suitable for both men and women who are in good general health.

Body Contouring Surgery

Prior to surgery, the areas to be treated are carefully marked. Small punctures in the skin are used to inject fluids into the treatment areas. These fluids are designed to limit blood loss and reduce discomfort. Fine cannulas are then used to suction out excess and unwanted fat from the desired area(s), and contour the body. 

Before Surgery

In consultation, Dr. Coley considers the objectives of the patient, problem areas and skin elasticity in making a recommendation for body contouring. Medical history and general health are also important considerations during the pre-operative visit.

During Surgery

Body contouring is well suited for an outpatient facility. The surgery is performed with local or general anesthesia. The length of the surgery depends on the number and size of areas being treated.   

Understanding the Recovery

Elastic garments are worn for up to one week following the procedure. Fluid drains from the small punctures during the first few days following the surgery. Certain activities are restricted to aid in healing, however, most patients are able to engage in light activity the day after surgery. Normal activity can usually be resumed within a week.

Understanding the Results

The results of body contouring / liposuction are often remarkable.  Patients should understand, however, that irregularities and dimpling of the skin present before the procedure are likely to remain. While improving the overall shape or the body, the procedure does not improve cellulite. The fat that is removed during body contouring cannot return. A weight gain following this procedure will result in a more generalized heaviness with fewer tendencies for fat deposits in the treated area.

Once liposuction has been performed, it takes some time for the skin to tighten and the final result to be appearant.  Final results may take six months.