As with most medical procedures, there is a lot of information floating around about liposuction. The problem is that a lot of this information is outdated, misleading or just plain wrong. Rather than wading through all the articles and posts about the procedure, let’s focus on what to expect with liposuction and the key facts you need to know.
There Is More Than Just One Type of Lipo
When we talk about liposuction, there is rarely any nuance. It is just thought of as a procedure where excess fat is removed from one part of the body. However, there are numerous types of lipo, and anyone considering plastic surgery needs to fully understand their options before they book their procedure. Some possibilities include:
- 360 lipo: liposuction treatment that sculpts not just the stomach, but the entire midsection, including the flanks and back.
- VASER Hi-Def: precision fat removal that leaves a thin layer of fat behind to enhance an athletic appearance.
- Six-pack abs: A type of lipo that uses abdominal etching, a technique that accentuates the natural abdominal lines.
- Laser-assisted liposuction: A technique that uses a laser to liquefy fat cells so they can be suctioned out.
What to expect with liposuction will depend on which techniques are used and the patient’s individual goals.
You Can Be Fit and Still Get Lipo
Not all fat responds to diet and exercise. But that doesn’t mean you have to throw up your hands in defeat.
Because liposuction removes fat, it can be easy to assume that people who get the procedure are not in their best possible shape. In truth, even people who spend hours at the gym every week can benefit from having excess fat deposits removed.
Many people work hard to be fit and healthy, yet despite their efforts, they never see the six-pack abs or muscle definition they crave. This can be due to diet, genetics or even aging. However, liposuction procedures can remove the layer of fat that is hiding your results, giving you the chance to show off the definition you have achieved. There is no requirement that people be out of shape in order to get liposuction.
Medically Healthy Candidates Are Best
Liposuction is not for weight loss, despite how the media portrays it. Nor is it a substitute for a healthy diet and exercise. Anyone who thinks it is a magical solution to being overweight or obese will be disappointed when they find out what to expect with liposuction.
Candidates for this form of treatment should be at or near their ideal body weight but have some spots where fat cells are stubbornly clinging on. The goal of the procedure is not to help the patient lose weight, but to allow them to contour their body. While the results can be incredible, they won’t help with dropping pounds or getting healthy.
Results Aren’t Instant
All the fat cells that will disappear are removed during the procedure. So, why aren’t the results instant?
Like any surgery, liposuction can cause swelling. How long this lasts can vary from patient to patient. However, for many, it can take a month or 2 to go down, even while wearing compression garments. Once the swelling is gone, the results will be visible.
Dr. Andan’s good bedside manner and customized approach ensures that every person who visits New York Surgical Arts enjoys a welcoming and positive experience from the initial consultation to the post procedure period and beyond.
