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Brand New to Plastic Surgery? Here’s What You Need to Know About Liposuction

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Over the last two and a half years, everything that once seemed normal has been uprooted and changed. 

One of the changes that has affected many people is the fact that many gyms and health clubs have closed down, causing a lot of us to lose that toned physique we once took so much pride in. 

However, just because the gyms and clubs are closed doesn’t mean you have to live with extra fat hanging around your midsection and other parts of your body. 

Woman in white clothing is measuring the size of her midsection with a tape.

Liposuction is a simple and effective procedure that can help rid your body of the extra fat that’s developed over the last few years. In fact, this is such a trusted procedure that liposuction was the number one plastic surgery procedure performed on men and women in 2020, according to the Aesthetic Society. 

However, if you are new to plastic surgery, then the idea of going under any invasive procedure can be a little scary. But, rest assured, liposuction is safe and can get you back to looking and feeling the way you want. 

To better show this, here’s some information to help ease your mind and give you an idea of what to expect with a liposuction procedure.

What Is Liposuction?

Liposuction surgery is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure in which stubborn fat (the fat that just won’t go away, no matter how good you eat and how active you are) is removed from your body through a suction device. One of the best parts about liposuction is that the results are long lasting, since the fat cells are removed permanently.

It is important to note that liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure. While you will probably lose a little weight from the removal of the fat deposits, liposuction surgery is not a substitute for a healthy lifestyle, which includes a balanced diet and regular exercise. 

What liposuction can give you, though, is a more contoured and defined body aesthetic, which will make you feel so much more confident in the way you look.

Liposuction and Other Procedures

Because liposuction is such a trusted and important plastic surgery procedure, it is used in conjunction with many other cosmetic surgeries, including tummy tuck (abdominoplasty), arm lift surgery, fat grafting for buttock lift, and thigh lift surgery

How It Works

For your liposuction procedure, you will be put under twilight or general anesthesia to make sure that you won’t feel any pain or discomfort during the surgery. Dr. Conrad then uses one of two types of liposuction: power-assisted liposuction or suction-assisted liposuction. 

With power-assisted liposuction, Dr. Conrad inserts an oscillating tube called a cannula under your skin, and this device removes fat tissue and sculpts the remaining fat. 

With suction-assisted liposuction, Dr. Conrad infuses the surgical area with a solution of saline, lidocaine, and a vasoconstrictor before removing the fat deposits and sculpting the area. 

At your consultation, Dr. Conrad will evaluate your fat deposits to decide which type of liposuction is best for you.

Concerns About Liposuction

If you are new to plastic surgery but are interested in losing some of your fat stores, then you probably have some concerns about liposuction. Many people are worried about recovery time, scarring, and risks. 

The following information can help ease your mind of concerns…

Liposuction Recovery

It usually takes one to two weeks for patients to recover from their liposuction procedure; however, you should refrain from any strenuous activity for six weeks. You will also be asked to wear compression garments to help speed the recovery process. 

While there may be some discomfort, bruising, and swelling after the surgery, these side effects should dissipate within the first week, and medication can be taken to alleviate any pain.

Liposuction Scars

Because liposuction is a minimally invasive procedure, you will likely not have any noticeable scars to worry about. The incisions made during a liposuction treatment are very small, and often heal inconspicuously.

Liposuction Risks

Liposuction is a surgical procedure, which means that it does carry some risks (though rare), including numbness, change in skin sensation, infection, and fluid accumulation.

Liposuction Results

Liposuction is a trusted plastic surgery that is great for both types of patients: those new to cosmetic surgery and those who have had multiple procedures done. 

Once the swelling subsists, your results will be noticeable. You’ll have a more toned and defined appearance that you won’t be able to wait to show off to the world!

Interested in Finding Out if Liposuction Is Right for You?

If you want to learn more about how liposuction can help you achieve the look and feel you’ve been wanting, then give us a call at (316) 681-2227 or fill out our online form here.

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