Liposuction: Know What It Can and Cannot Do

Liposuction is one of the leading cosmetic procedures, capable of achieving dramatic results that can last a lifetime with healthy habits. That in itself is quite a lot! However, when considering a plastic surgery procedure, it is important to understand that every technique will have limitations. Liposuction is not an exception. Here, we point out what liposuction involves and what it can and cannot do. This may help you gain clarity on the approach you may need to take to achieve the contours you want.

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is the surgical method of extracting fat cells from one or more areas of the body. The procedure may be performed under general anesthesia or, in some cases, local anesthesia that numbs the treatment area. Through small incisions, the surgeon inserts a cannula, a small hollow tube, just beneath the skin. Gentle suction is applied via a device to dislodge and extract unwanted fat, resulting in decreased circumference or flattening of the treatment area.

What Liposuction Can Do

One of the reasons why liposuction is a popular body contouring method is because the procedure is minimally-invasive and conservative. Only a particular amount of fat can be removed at a given time, and only tiny incisions are needed to access the fat to be removed. Liposuction can remove enough fatty tissue that the treated area looks noticeably different after surgery. At the same time, the gentle nature of the technique supports a relatively quick recovery.

What Liposuction Cannot Do

Liposuction is a form of body contouring. The procedure cannot achieve dramatic results in overweight people, nor will it reduce weight. This may sound counterintuitive because the procedure literally removes fat cells, but it statistically correct. If you are in the process of reaching an ideal weight, liposuction can be the icing on the top, not a mode of getting there.

Even though liposuction removes fat cells, it is not a treatment you should expect to improve the appearance of cellulite or sagging tissue. Before liposuction, an experienced surgeon will evaluate tissue laxity and discuss expectations in terms of tissue retraction. Age, weight, and pregnancy may alter superficial tissue to such a degree that tissue is not expected to bounce back after liposuction. In such cases, a tummy tuck or other body lifting procedure may be discussed.

Liposuction is popular for a reason. This treatment achieves excellent results for most people. If you’re ready to learn more, we’re ready to talk! Contact our San Antonio office at 210-227-3223 to schedule a liposuction consultation.

Posted in: Liposuction

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