Liposuction

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes fat cells from areas of the body where there is an excess of fatty tissue. Typical treatment areas include:

• Abdomen
• Waist
• Thighs
• Hips
• Buttocks
• Upper arms
• Back
• Inner knee
• Chest
• Cheeks, chin and neck
• Calves
• Ankles

In addition to the traditional invasive method of performing liposuction, ultrasonic and laser technologies now enable Dr. Walker to use less invasive techniques.

How does liposuction work?

Traditional liposuction involves injecting a saline solution into the treatment area to help your surgeon extract the fat cells. This normally takes place under general anesthetic and is the most invasive method.

Ultrasonic and laser technologies use sound waves or heat to melt or destroy the fat cells, making them much easier to remove from your body. These techniques also make it easier to target hard to reach areas of fat that would be difficult to access using traditional liposuction.

Modern treatment approaches also have the added benefit of acting to tighten the skin in the treatment area, improving your appearance without you having to undergo further procedures.

Dr. Walker can also use lipo-sculpting techniques, which involve moving fat from one area of your body to another. This can help define muscles or enhance areas such as the buttocks, using your own body fat to sculpt a new shape.

Is liposuction a better option than surgery?

Liposuction is far less invasive than open surgery, particularly using ultrasonic or laser technologies. Consequently, the risks and possible complications are significantly fewer.

Dr. Walker can often achieve your desired results in a single session, and he’s able to treat several different areas during one procedure.

How long does it take to recover from liposuction?

After your procedure, Dr. Walker checks all is well and gives you detailed information on optimizing your recovery. You’re likely to feel sore and see some bruising in the first few days, and the treatment area may swell and retain fluid, but you shouldn’t experience any discomfort that can’t be eased by over-the-counter pain medication.

You may need to wear a compression garment for a month or two after the procedure to prevent the treatment area swelling too much. Dr. Walker may also prescribe antibiotics to make sure you don’t get an infection. Recovery rates do vary between patients, but you should feel well enough to go back to work after a few days and return to all your regular activities after a couple of weeks.

To find out more about liposuction and lipo-sculpting, call Best Plastic Surgery Practice today, or book an appointment online.