Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat from the body. It is typically used to improve the appearance of the body by removing excess fat from specific areas, such as the abdomen, thighs, or arms.
Dermatologists are medical doctors who specialize in the diagnosis and treatment of conditions of the skin. They are not trained or certified to perform liposuction. However, some dermatologists may offer liposuction as part of their overall cosmetic services.
If you are considering liposuction, it is important to consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon who is experienced in performing the procedure. The surgeon will be able to assess your individual case and advise you on the best course of treatment.
Who is a candidate for liposuction?
Liposuction, also known as suction lipectomy or suction-assisted fat removal, is a surgical procedure that helps to remove stubborn and unwanted fat deposits from specific areas of the body. Commonly treated areas include the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, love handles, and chin.
Liposuction is not a weight loss solution for people who are obese. It is also not an alternative to a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition. The best candidates for liposuction are men and women who:
-Are of relatively normal weight but have pockets of stubborn fat that are resistant to diet and exercise
-Are physically healthy and have no medical conditions that may impair healing or increase the risk of complications
-Have realistic expectations about the results of the surgery
How long does it take to recover from liposuction?
It’s difficult to give an exact answer to how long it will take to recover from liposuction as it is unique to each individual. However, as a general guide, you can expect to take approximately two weeks before feeling your best. The first few days after surgery will be spent taking it easy and allowing your body to rest and heal. During this time, you will likely experience some swelling, bruising, and pain which can be controlled with medication. You will also be wearing a compression garment to support your body and help reduce swelling.
You will need to take it easy for the first week or so, and avoid strenuous activity or excessive standing/walking. After a week or so, you should be able to return to most normal activities, although you will still need to take care not to overdo it. It can take up to two months for all the swelling to fully dissipate and for you to see the full results of your surgery.
If you have any concerns during your recovery, be sure to contact your surgeon. In the meantime, enjoy your new, improved figure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I go to a dermatologist or a plastic surgeon for liposuction?
Assuming that you want to achieve a more modest result--for example, removing excess fat without affecting too much skin--then I would recommend consulting with a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon. Board Certification is not mandatory for plastic surgeons, but it is highly coveted and generally reflects excellent patient care and results. So if you are looking for someone who has the latest techniques and best results, a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon should be your first choice.
What are the different types of liposuction?
There are two types of liposuction- traditional liposuction and the tumescent technique. Traditional liposuction is performed under general anaesthesia and involves using a surgeon to remove fat from specific areas of the body by removing with a knife and vacuum. The tumescent technique, also known as fat vacuuming, was invented by a Californian dermatologist in 1987 and uses heat to cause the release of Millions of liquid droplets that are sucked out of the target area by a machine.
How do I pick a good liposuction surgeon?
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. However, it is important to consider the doctor's experience performing liposuction, as well as their reputation in the medical community. It is also helpful to research potential surgeons' credentials and reviews online.
What is tumescent liposuction and when was it used?
Tumescent liposuction was first used in 1987 by a Californian dermatologist and continues to be the main liposuction technique used by dermatologists today. Tumescent liposuction is a minimally invasive form of liposuction that uses large volumes of dilute local anaesthetic such as lignocaine (lidocaine). This numbs the area being treated, allowing the lipo-surgical technician to remove fat without going through hours of painful and often expensive pre-operative procedures.
What type of doctor performs liposuction?
General plastic surgeons are the most commonly encountered type of doctor who performs liposuction.
