Liposuction

Liposuction is a procedure that removes localized deposits of fat from specific areas including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, back, upper arms and neck. Ideal candidates for liposuction are women and men who are near their ideal body weight, but have areas of fat that do not respond to diet and exercise. It is important that you are physically healthy. Your age is not a major consideration, however, older patients may have less skin elasticity and may not achieve the same results as a younger patient with tighter skin.

The most common method for performing liposuction is the tumescent technique. With this approach, a large amount of sterile salt water solution is injected into the areas to be treated. The liquid causes the compartments of fat to become firm or tense, allowing the liposuction cannula to move smoothly beneath the skin as the fat is removed. This usually results in less post-operative bruising, swelling and discomfort as compared to traditional methods.

Liposuction is usually performed as an outpatient and most people are back to normal daily activities within 7-10 days. A custom-fit compression garment is worn for 6 weeks following surgery. This helps to decrease bruising and swelling, and provide support and comfort while you are up and around. You will see a noticeable difference in the shape of your body quite soon after surgery, however improvement will become even more apparent after 6-8 weeks, when most of the swelling has subsided. There can be some residual swelling for up to 6 months and it is best not to assess your final contour until that time.

Fat cells that are removed during liposuction do not grow back. You can help to maintain your new shape with a healthy diet and regular exercise. If you gain or lose weight following surgery, you may find that the weight is distributed more evenly instead of accumulating in the areas that were problematic for you in the past.

Liposuction is normally a safe procedure, especially when performed on carefully selected patients. Side affects can occur and include bruising, swelling, infection and temporary numbness. Serious complications such as blood clots and reactions to anesthesia are rare. Dr. Archer will discuss these issues with you in detail at the time of your consultation.