Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries on the market, coming in as the second most popular plastic surgery procedure of 2020.
For those who are considering it, before deciding to go under the knife you’ll want to make sure that you’ll get the results you want from liposuction. There are many different types of lipo to choose from, so don’t hesitate to ask your liposuction surgeon about options during your consultation.
What kinds of results can I expect?
Naturally, knowing what you’ll look like post-recovery is the most important question. While liposuction isn’t intended for major weight loss, it’s perfect for stubborn pockets of fat that don’t respond well to diet or exercise.
Most people can expect to see noticeable smoothing, toning and tightening of problem areas such as hips, thighs, back, belly and upper arms.
What can I expect during the procedure?
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure that usually takes less than three hours. The exact length depends on a number of factors that your plastic surgeon will discuss with you.
You’ll be administered anesthetic for comfort, and the surgeon will make small, inconspicuous incisions through which the fat will be suctioned out.
What is the recovery process like?
Recovery varies by patient, but most people are able to resume light activity and work after about two weeks. After about a month, most people can gradually resume a normal schedule.
During recovery, you will wear compression garments to manage swelling, and you may have drains installed temporarily in your incisions to help with fluid retention. Your doctor will give you specific recovery instructions, and he or she will likely recommend having a friend or family member nearby to help with any lifting or bending you may need to do.
It may take several months for the swelling to completely resolve, but you will generally notice continuous body contour improvement as you heal.
What are my financing options?
Cosmetic surgeries are rarely covered by insurance, but most board-certified plastic surgeons will offer a number of financing and payment options to ease the cost burden. Don’t be afraid to ask your surgeon’s office for the options available to you. They want to make reaching aesthetic goals accessible to patients.
May I see before and after photos of other patients?
Aesthetic procedures are as much about the surgeon’s artistic style as they are about skill, so be sure to ask for pictures of previous patients to see how they look. You should always choose a plastic surgeon whose style resonates with the body image you’re envisioning.
What credentials do you have?
Cosmetic surgeries are never an area where you should cut corners or try to save money. Most board-certified plastic surgeons have more extensive experience and training and have earned the additional credentials that will ensure that you’re getting the safest, highest-quality care possible.
You should look for specific credentials from institutions like the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
How much experience do you have with liposuction?
Most plastic surgeons will advertise liposuction services, but you should always ask about exactly how much experience they have with the procedure. Not all surgeons specialize in liposuction, so it’s important to make sure the surgeon you choose will be able to deliver the results you want.
Dr. Shahram Salemy is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon specializing in cosmetic surgery in Seattle, Washington and Tri-Cities, WA. Dr. Salemy graduated from Yale University and The Yale School of Medicine, is a recognized member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), and is a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons. Dr. Salemy is also an Assistant Clinical Professor at The University of Washington’s Department of Surgery, Division of Plastic Surgery. Since 2006, Dr. Salemy has been named “One of America’s Top Plastic Surgeons” every year.
