Liposuction

Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the United States. Liposuction is ideal for people who have been unable to achieve a slimmer body shape despite a healthy diet and exercise routine – for people who have F.R.E.D. (Fat Resistant to Exercise and Diet).

Who Can Benefit From Liposuction?

Though liposuction should not be used as a weight loss tool, it is capable of removing unwanted pockets of fat from various parts of the body to create a more proportionate, attractive figure. You may be a potential candidate for liposuction procedures if you meet the following criteria:

• You are at a healthy weight for your height
• You desire to slim down specific body areas
• You have good skin elasticity

Liposuction surgery is capable of treating localized fat deposits in the abdomen, hips, flanks, buttocks, thighs, calves, ankles, breasts, arms, back and neck.  Prior to electing to undergo liposuction, it is important for patients to possess good overall physical and emotional health. Realistic cosmetic expectations and goals are also vital to patient satisfaction.

The only way to find out if liposuction is right for you is to schedule a consultation with Dr. Gotkin at Cosmetique. During your consult, be prepared to discuss factors such as your medical history, current medications, and aesthetic goals.

What to Expect During Your Liposuction

Liposuction surgery can be performed under a local or general anesthetic. The length of your surgery will depend on the extent of your procedure and the number of areas you wish to have treated. Once you have been sedated, Dr. Gotkin will begin by making small incisions in the treatment area. A very dilute solution of local anesthetic (tumescent solution) is spread throughout the entire area; this makes the procedure much more comfortable for you and assures much less bleeding during surgery.  A very small cannula (a small tube) through which is threaded the Smartlipo fiber (like an uncooked strand of angel hair pasta) is inserted through the incision.  The laser device begins to “melt” and liquefy the fat; the liquefied fat is then very gently withdrawn. 

Following the fat removal process, incisions will be closed with sutures. Dr. Gotkin does not use drains after liposuction. You will be placed in a supportive compression garment which you will wear for about 4 weeks following surgery.  You will feel more comfortable in the garment due to the swelling which naturally occurs after surgery.  The garment helps to reduce the swelling more quickly and also helps the skin mold and fit the newly sculpted contour beneath. 

After Your Surgery

Most patients are able to return home the same day of surgery. Immediately following your procedure, you may experience some discomfort and tenderness in the treatment area. Moderate swelling and bruising are also common for the first several days. Prescriptions for pain medication will be provided at your preoperative visit; you should take them, as necessary, to manage discomfort.

Swelling may obscure the final results of your liposuction surgery for several weeks. Your final result will not be apparent for about 6 months.  It is important to get plenty of rest for the first few days, but most patients are able to resume normal activities within ten days or less. Rigorous physical activity may be restricted for several weeks. Because incisions made during liposuction are small and often concealed in the natural contours of the body, scarring will be minimal.

For More Information

Smartlipo device.”>SmartLipo, laser-assisted liposuction
Water Assisted Liposuction
Liposuction and Tummy Tuck Improve Quality of Life from the Cosmetique Blog