Liposuction

Procedure

Liposuction is a procedure that removes fat through very small incisions using a narrow metal tube or cannula connected to a suction machine.  The liposuction procedure is ideally suited to patients with localized areas of excess or disproportion which can be sculpted to produce a more harmonious overall silhouette.  Patients with generalized obesity are less ideal candidates and are better suited to weight reduction programs.

Common areas for liposuction are the abdomen, hips, back, outer thighs, or “saddle bags”, inner thighs and knees.  The neck and arms, calves and ankles, can also be treated.  Liposuction will not tighten loose skin and consequently the best candidates are those with good skin tone and elasticity. 

Methods

Tumescent Technique

Tumescent liposuction is a method involving the injection of a very dilute solution of adrenaline which constricts blood vessels and reduces the potential bleeding in the site where liposuction is performed.  A dilute solution of xylocaine can also be added to numb the area to be treated depending on the method of anesthesia utilized.  This represents the safest form of liposuction and is applicable to standard suction assisted liposuction, ultrasonic liposuction and power assisted liposuction.

Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction (UAL)

This method of liposuction utilizes a cannula which emulsifies fat with sound waves.  This is often followed with suction assisted liposuction to remove residual fat.  Philadelphia Cosmetic Surgeon Dr. Bottger feels that this technique does not offer any significant advantages over standard suction assisted technique and is potentially associated with increased complications. 

Power Assisted Liposuction

This method utilizes a power source to cause a reciprocating motion of the cannula to facilitate break up of the fat.  This technique may reduce the work of the surgeon but does not offer any advantage in terms of final results.

Suction Assisted Liposuction

This is the standard form of liposuction which uses a thin cannula or tube connected to a suction machine and inserted through a small incision under the skin.  A back and forth motion breaks up the fat which is subsequently suctioned into a container.  Dr. Bottger favors using the tumescent, suction assisted technique for the most predictable results.

Ideal Candidates

• Patients in good health with realistic expectations.
• Patients with localized contour disproportions.
• Patients who have good skin tone and elasticity.

Risk and Complications

Potential complications include but are not limited to bleeding, infection, unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, skin contour irregularities, skin laxity or looseness, fluid accumulation, pulmonary complications, and need for revision surgery.  Significant complications, although possible, are not common.

Recovery

Following surgery you will be asked to wear a compression garment for approximately 3 weeks.  After this period of time major swelling and bruising has resolved and approximately 60%-70% of the result is evident.  It will take approximately three months for the final result.

For more information about liposuction, begin by reading our Frequently Asked Liposuction Questions. If you have any questions, contact our cosmetic surgeon to learn more about the liposuction procedure.

Schedule an initial consultation to discuss with Dr. Bottger and his team how Liposuction can give you the look you desire.

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