Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure that uses a thin, hollow tube called a cannula to remove localized areas of body fat. The cannula is inserted through extremely small incisions and then moved back and forth to loosen excess fat, which is suctioned out using a vacuum or a cannula-attached syringe. Treated areas look slimmer, more contoured, and in better overall proportion to the rest of the body. However, liposuction is not a method for losing weight and is not effective in tightening loose and sagging skin.
The ideal candidate for liposuction is in good overall health but has one or more areas of fat that do not respond to diet or exercise. Areas that are often treated with liposuction include the thighs, abdomen, arms, back, hips, buttocks, chest, face, calves, and ankles. Dr. Earl E. Ferguson, III, an award-winning plastic surgeon with decades of experience, performs liposuction for patients in and around San Antonio.
The Liposuction Procedure
One of the most common liposuction techniques is tumescent liposuction, which may get an assist from ultrasound or laser. It is performed on an outpatient basis.
During tumescent liposuction, a solution comprising saline solution, lidocaine (an anesthetic) and epinephrine (a blood-vessel contractor) is injected into the area being treated. The solution causes the targeted tissue swell and become firm, which makes it easier to remove via the cannula. The advantages to this technique are that the anesthetic is built in, so there is no need for general or IV sedation, and blood loss is minimized because the epinephrine constricts blood vessels.
In laser-assisted tumescent liposuction, a laser is used to liquefy the fat, which makes removing it easier. The laser can also be used to tighten treatment-area skin after fat is removed. Similarly, ultrasound-assisted liposuction uses ultrasound energy to liquefy fat.
Recovery from Liposuction
After liposuction, patients experience mild swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the treated area. Compression garments or elastic bandages are typically worn to help reduce these symptoms as the area heals. Patients can return to work and other regular activities as soon as they feel comfortable, usually after a few days. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks.
Risks of Liposuction
In addition to the usual risks associated with surgery, risks associated with liposuction include the following:
- Loose or rippled skin
- Worsening of cellulite
- Asymmetry
- Contour irregularities
- Pigmentation irregularities
When large amounts of fat are removed, surgery to remove excess skin may be necessary.
Results of Liposuction
Results of the liposuction procedure may not be apparent until swelling and bruising subside, which usually takes a week; swelling should completely subside within a few months. Incisions are rarely sutured, and scarring is almost nonexistent because the incisions used for the cannula are so small. Liposuction results are long-lasting unless a substantial amount of weight is gained.
Ideal Candidates for Liposuction
Ideal liposuction candidates are adults within 30% of their ideal weight. Candidates should also have firm, elastic skin and good muscle tone to make for an effective liposuction procedure. Candidates should be non-smokers and free from any underlying health conditions that may complicate the recovery process.
Is Liposuction Painful?
Liposuction requires patients to go under anesthesia for the procedure, so while this is a surgical procedure, no pain or discomfort should be felt during the surgery at all. Under the care of Dr. Ferguson, who prioritizes patient comfort during each procedure, patients can expect to feel safe during their liposuction. However, it's important to note that after liposuction, the recovery process may result in slight pain or discomfort as your body heals.
How to Prepare for Your Liposuction Procedure
Taking care to prepare for your liposuction procedure is one of the best things a patient can do to increase their chances of a successful, complication-free recovery. Preparing for your surgery makes the procedure easier, and precise planning can also make your recovery process easier. Before your liposuction, we recommend patients do the following:
- Consult with your primary doctor about stopping any medications that may interfere with your liposuction.
- Quit smoking, as it can impact your health, prevent blood flow, and interfere with healing.
- Avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications or supplements as they can increase bleeding.
- Try to achieve your goal weight before your procedure. Maintaining a stable weight is key to optimal results.
- Find a balanced diet you can stick to. Switching to healthy foods and snacks will make maintaining a stable weight easy before and after your liposuction procedure.
- Build muscle through a workout routine that benefits you. Focusing on muscle strengthening and toning during workouts will help you achieve the best-looking results.
- Arrange transportation plans with a loved one to take you to and from your liposuction procedure.
- Invest in comfortable clothing. Wear comfortable clothing for your procedure, but bring loose, easy-to-put-on clothing for your recovery.
- Prepare your home for recovery. Recovery can be challenging, so making your clothes easily accessible, food easy to prepare, and other items easy to reach can help make your recovery process easier.
FAQs
Can I Combine Liposuction With Other Procedures?
Yes, you can pair liposuction with other cosmetic or surgical procedures. Combining treatments can optimize recovery time. It may also reduce costs associated with anesthesia and facility fees.
Common surgeries combined with liposuction include:
- Tummy tuck
- Breast procedures (augmentation, reduction, and lift)
- Facelift
- Neck lift
You can also enhance liposuction results with treatments using radiofrequency or laser technologies.
What Is the Typical Duration of a Liposuction Procedure?
The liposuction surgery duration depends on several factors, including:
- The number of areas treated
- The size of the treatment areas
- The type of liposuction technique used
- Whether you're combining liposuction with other surgeries
On average, the procedure takes 1-4 hours. Afterward, patients are generally monitored in a recovery room for another 1-2 hours.
How Can I Minimize Post-Surgery Scars?
Liposuction leaves minimal and discreet scars due to the small incisions required for the procedure. The scars' size and visibility depend on factors such as the liposuction technique, your body's healing process, and the surgeon's skill. Â
Patients can also reduce the severity of scarring by doing the following:
- Follow post-operative instructions: Keep incisions clean, use prescribed ointments, and avoid activities that may stress the healing area.
- Sun protection: Protect scars from sun exposure with sunscreen to prevent darkening.
- Use silicone sheets or scar creams: Products like silicone sheets or gels can help reduce scar visibility.
- Scar treatments: Laser therapy or microneedling may improve the appearance of scars if needed.
Is Liposuction Effective for Treating Cellulite?
Liposuction is not usually recommended as a primary solution for cellulite. This is because it removes excess fat and does not address the structural causes of cellulite.
Liposuction can improve body contours by removing fat deposits. However, it does not directly treat the dimpled, uneven appearance of cellulite.
Other services, such as laser and radiofrequency therapies, generally produce better results for those dealing with stubborn cellulite.
What Is the Greatest Amount of Fat That a Surgeon Can Remove During Liposuction?
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) advises removing no more than 5 liters (roughly 11 pounds) of fat in a single procedure.
In some cases, surgeons may remove a little more fat. However, this usually requires hospital settings and careful post-operative monitoring.
The primary concern with removing large amounts of fat is the increased risk of complications, including:
- Fluid imbalances: Fat removal can disrupt the balance of fluids in the body, leading to dehydration or fluid overload.
- Blood loss: Large-volume liposuction may cause excessive blood loss.
- Prolonged surgery time: Longer surgeries increase risks related to anesthesia and infections.
- Skin laxity: Removing too much fat can lead to sagging skin, especially if skin elasticity is poor.
Why Choose Dr. Earl E. Ferguson, III?
Dr. Earl E. Ferguson, III, is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. He has over 25 years of experience serving San Antonio and South Texas.Â
As a Medical Executive Committee Board member for South Texas Spine and Surgical Hospital, Dr. Ferguson combines exceptional skill with leadership in patient care. Named a Top Doctor by Castle Connolly, a prestigious recognition awarded to the top 7% of physicians nationwide, his excellence is endorsed by his peers and area hospitals.
Schedule a Consultation for Liposuction in San Antonio, TX
Liposuction can help you reach your goal weight, tone your body, and restore self-confidence. Ferguson Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics provides high-quality care to patients in San Antonio, TX, and the surrounding areas. To learn more about liposuction, click here to schedule a consultation or call 210.290.9078.