FAQs About A Liposuction Treatment
Is a liposuction treatment the right choice for you? If diet and exercise haven't given you the results you want, take a look at what you need to know about your surgical options.
What Is Liposuction?
This procedure is a surgical fat reduction method. Instead of removing weight in general, this procedure targets specific areas and contours your shape. Common procedure areas include the buttocks, thighs, abdomen, hips, and arms. This type of body contouring surgery eliminates stubborn spots that you can't reduce with more conservative methods (such as dietary changes or increased physical activity).
Is Liposuction Popular?
Liposuction fat reduction treatment is a popular procedure in the United States. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), in 2020, liposuction was the fourth most popular type of cosmetic surgery—with more than 211,000 procedures done in one year.
Is Liposuction Painful?
You won't feel anything during the procedure itself. You may either need general anesthesia, a sedative, or a local anesthetic during the surgery. The type of medication you need depends on the type and complexity of the procedure. General anesthesia and sedation allow you to comfortably rest or sleep during the surgery. Some patients who receive sedation (and not general anesthesia) may wake partially or fully during the procedure. But the medication will help you to relax and feel calm.
Are All Liposuction Procedures the Same?
There are different techniques that surgeons may choose to use. These include tumescent liposuction (the use of an anesthetic solution), ultrasound-assisted liposuction (a metal ultrasound rod breaks up the fatty tissue), laser-assisted liposuction (high-intensity light helps to break down the fat cells), and power-assisted liposuction (a tube-like device, known as a cannula, vacuums the fat out of your body).
What Happens After the Procedure?
The answer to this question depends on the type of procedure you choose, the treatment area (of the body), and whether you receive sedation or general anesthesia. If you need sedation or general anesthesia, you will need to rest after the surgery. You may feel weak, groggy, or confused. Patients who have this type of medication can not drive themselves home from the liposuction treatment. This means you will need a responsible adult to come with you to the surgery. This person should stay with you at home as you recover from the sedation or anesthesia.
You may feel pain or discomfort and have some swelling after the surgery. Your doctor can discuss the best pain management options before your procedure. These may include over-the-counter or prescription medications.
Compression garments can help to reduce swelling during the recovery period. Your doctor can provide instructions for wearing compression garments when they review pain medication options and other post-op instructions.
Contact a local doctor to learn more about liposuction treatment.