Liposuction is a popular and safe procedure that can improve body shape and help you achieve a fitter, more sculpted look.
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Our Cosmetic Self Evaluation can help you decide if this procedure is right for you:
TAKE OUR SELF EVALUATIONBenefits of Liposuction
Improved body shape and contour.
Liposuction can remove stubborn fat deposits that don't respond to diet and exercise, helping to create a more sculpted and defined appearance.
Minimally invasive procedure.
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that is performed through small incisions, resulting in less scarring and a shorter recovery time compared to traditional surgery.
Quick recovery.
Most patients are up and about the day after liposuction surgery and can return to work within a few days. Over-the-counter pain options are usually sufficient for managing any post-procedure discomfort.
Targeted fat removal.
Liposuction allows for precise and targeted fat removal in specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, love handles, and neck. This can help to achieve a more proportionate and balanced figure.
Long-lasting results.
Once the excess fat cells are removed, they do not come back. However, it is important to maintain a stable weight to ensure long-lasting results. Proper care and a healthy lifestyle can help to maintain the results achieved through liposuction.
Boost in self-confidence.
Liposuction can help to improve body image and enhance self-confidence by removing unwanted fat and improving body shape. This can have a positive impact on overall well-being and quality of life.
Liposuction
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure that targets specific areas of the body to remove excess fat deposits. It is a popular and safe procedure that offers a relatively short recovery period. Liposuction can improve body shape and help you achieve a more sculpted look.
If you have areas of unwanted fat that don't respond to diet or exercise, liposuction may be a suitable option for you. It is important to have good skin elasticity and realistic expectations for the results of the procedure. Liposuction cannot significantly improve loose or sagging skin.
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure that involves making small incisions near the treatment area. Local anesthesia, intravenous anesthesia, or general anesthesia may be used. The type of anesthesia you receive for this procedure will be discussed and selected during your consultation.
Once the anesthetic has taken effect, Dr. Fan will insert a thin tube called a cannula through the incisions. This cannula is used to loosen the excess fat deposits beneath the skin. Once the fat has been loosened, it is suctioned out of the body.
The length of the procedure can vary depending on the number of areas being treated. It can take anywhere from less than an hour to up to four hours or longer. Dr. Fan will discuss the expected duration of your specific procedure during your consultation.
Types of Liposuction
When it comes to liposuction, there are various techniques and technologies available to meet the individual needs and preferences of each patient. The choice of technique will depend on factors such as the patient's body type, the area being treated, and the desired outcome.
1. Tumescent Liposuction: Tumescent liposuction is the most popular and widely used technique. It involves the injection of a large volume of diluted solution into the target area. This solution contains an anesthetic to numb the area, as well as a vasoconstrictor to reduce bleeding. The expanded fat cells are then suctioned out through small cannulas inserted into the skin.
2. Laser-Assisted Liposuction: Laser-assisted liposuction, commonly referred to as SmartLipo, utilizes laser energy to liquefy fat cells before they are removed. The laser energy is delivered through a small cannula, which helps to target specific areas with precision. Laser-assisted liposuction may also stimulate collagen production, leading to potential skin tightening effects.
3. Ultrasound-Assisted Liposuction: Ultrasound-assisted liposuction, or UAL, uses ultrasonic waves to liquefy fat cells, making them easier to remove. This technique is particularly effective for areas with denser fat deposits like the back, male chest, and upper abdomen. Ultrasound energy is delivered through a cannula, selectively targeting fat cells while preserving surrounding tissues.
4. Power-Assisted Liposuction: Power-assisted liposuction, or PAL, uses a vibrating cannula to break up fat cells and remove them more efficiently. The cannula's rapid back-and-forth motion allows for easier fat removal, reducing the physical effort required by the surgeon. This technique can be beneficial for larger treatment areas or when dealing with fibrous fat.
5. Suction-Assisted Liposuction: Suction-assisted liposuction, also known as traditional liposuction, is a standard technique that utilizes a vacuum-like device attached to a cannula to suction out fat cells. This method allows for precise and controlled fat removal and is often combined with other liposuction techniques to achieve optimal results.
Recovery
Recovery after liposuction is typically quick with minimal downtime. Patients can usually resume light activity the day after the procedure and return to work within a few days. Over-the-counter pain medication is usually sufficient for managing post-operative soreness. Swelling, bruising, and numbness may occur after the procedure, but these side effects generally subside within two to three weeks. Compression garments are typically worn to aid in the healing process. Deep tissue massage can help resolve swelling, and most patients can resume normal activities within 10 to 14 days. It's important to follow all post-operative instructions provided by your surgeon for optimal recovery.
Liposuction in San Francisco, CA
Ready for a more sculpted body? Schedule a consultation with Dr. Larry Fan, an award-winning plastic surgeon in San Francisco, specializing in liposuction. With his expertise and state-of-the-art facility, Dr. Fan will help you achieve your body goals. From abdomen to thighs, back to neck, Dr. Fan can contour various areas to enhance your figure.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is liposuction and how does it work?
Liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure aimed at removing excess fat deposits from specific areas of the body. During the procedure, a small incision is made near the treatment area, and a small tube called a cannula is inserted to suction out the unwanted fat. This helps to reshape and contour the body.
2. Am I a good candidate for liposuction surgery?
Good candidates for liposuction are generally in good overall health, have excessive fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise, and have good skin elasticity. It's important to have realistic expectations about the results and understand that liposuction is not a weight loss method.
3. What areas of the body can be treated with liposuction?
Liposuction can be performed on various areas of the body, including the abdomen, love handles, thighs, back, chest (in men), and neck. These are commonly targeted areas where excess fat tends to accumulate.
4. What are the risks and complications associated with liposuction surgery?
Like any surgical procedure, liposuction carries some risks. These risks include bleeding, infection, skin ulcerations, contour irregularities, and blood clots. It's important to choose a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon to minimize these risks.
5. How long is the recovery time after liposuction surgery?
The recovery time after liposuction varies depending on the individual and the extent of the procedure. Generally, most patients can return to work within 2-7 days, with bruising typically resolving in 1-2 weeks. Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities for a few weeks and wear compression garments to aid in the healing process.
6. Can liposuction treat loose skin or cellulite?
Liposuction is primarily designed to remove excess fat deposits and improve body contour and shape. It cannot significantly improve loose or sagging skin. In some cases, if the skin has good elasticity, it may tighten after the fat is removed. However, if loose skin is a concern, a tummy tuck or other skin tightening procedures may be more appropriate. Additionally, liposuction is not a treatment for cellulite. There are other procedures specifically designed to target and reduce the appearance of cellulite.
Liposuction
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