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FAQ
Liposuction is a surgical procedure used to remove fat deposits and reshape areas of the body. Liposuction may be performed alone or in conjunction with other cosmetic or plastic surgery procedures, such as lifts or reductive surgery. It is not recommended for weight loss, but a viable technique for areas where fat deposits won't disappear.
Procedure
Regardless of the specific area being treated, the technique is generally the same. A small incision is made in a natural crease of the skin or some other inconspicuous place. A hollow, pen-like device, called a canula, is inserted into the skin. The canula is used to suck out the fat. In some cases, an ultrasonic probe is used to break up the fat into small pieces before it is sucked out with the canula. A newer technique, called the tumescent technique, forces extreme amounts of water into the fat prior to vacuuming it out, making hard fatty deposits easier to remove. Depending on the extensiveness of the surgery, liposuction may be an outpatient or inpatient procedure.
Risks
Complications from liposuction are more serious than for most other cosmetic procedures. They include:
Infections - which can occur after nearly any surgery but can be life threatening if left untreated.
Embolism - a piece of fat can get trapped in a blood vessel and can clog pathways to the lungs and brain, which is life threatening.
Visceral Perforations - Because physicians cannot see under the skin to where they insert the canula, organs can be punctured requiring additional surgery to repair.
Fluid Imbalance - A lot of liquid is used in liposuction for fat removal. This can cause an imbalance, which may lead to heart, lung or kidney problems.
Skin Problems - In some cases, swelling on the skin above the area where the liposuction occurs remains for months. Additionally, the skin may "die," change color and slough off.
Fatalities related to liposuction have been reported in as few as 3 in 100,000 cases and as high as 100 in 100,000 cases. However, many patients enjoy positive experiences with liposuction when conducted by a certified, experienced and trusted surgeon.
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What Is Liposuction?
Liposuction is a safe and effective cosmetic procedure in which excess fat from beneath the skin is removed and the body is reshaped . The best results in liposuction are achieved with a meticulous surgeon like Dr. Bresnick, who takes the time to carefully contour and reduce fat in body areas such as the thighs, hips, and abdomen. With small, carefully concealed incisions, unwanted fat is removed and desired areas are recontoured and shaped.
Liposuction is popular because of the dramatic improvements which can be achieved, the minimal incisions needed, and the rapid healing which follows surgery. The most common areas treated include the thighs, hips, abdomen, love handle areas, low back, arms, knees, and neck. Other areas such as the upper back, calves, ankles, and chest can also be treated.
Types of Liposuction
Dr. Bresnick performs both tumescent liposuction and ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL).
Tumescent liposuction is a technique in which dilute local anesthetic and saline solution is placed within the fat. The fat is softened and is more easily suctioned.
Ultrasound liposuction utilizes sound waves to help loosen the fat to ease suctioning. This technique is most useful in areas in which the fat is more fibrous such as the back. Patients who have previously had liposuction are also good candidates for ultrascound assisted liposuction.
At your consultation, Dr. Bresnick will review the advantages of each of these techniques and develop a customized treatment plan for you.
Common Questions and Answers for Liposuction
Who is the best candidate for liposuction?
Liposuction is best performed for a healthy person who is stable at a weight level and desires to improve their shape and contour. A patient does not have to be thin to have liposuction. However, liposuction is a technique to make a person look better rather a way to lose weight.
How is the procedure done?
Most liposuction procedures are done with patients lightly asleep, as an outpatient procedure. Small tubes, known as cannulas, are used to remove fatty tissue, sculpt body areas, and improve contour. At the end of surgery, patients are placed in a supportive garment. Most patients go home within about 1 – 2 hours after surgery.
Is liposuction safe?
Dr. Bresnick has performed hundreds of major liposuction cases with an outstanding safely record. His patients have enjoyed great results with no major complications! The key to a good, safe result is a well-trained surgeon, a good anesthetist, and a quality surgery center. Dr. Bresnick's office has all of these features!
When will I look good?
Patients will notice a big difference the next day. Each day, bruising and swelling decreases and the new body contour become more visible. It is exciting to see the new you appearing as the healing process continues. By three to four weeks after surgery, a good amount of healing has taken place and by six to eight weeks, it is time to go clothes shopping!
What to Expect
Liposuction is performed in Dr. Bresnick's fully accredited surgical center, Encino Surgicenter. Following the procedure, patients will relax in the recovery room for a short period of time. You will be able to go home an hour or two after surgery. Dr. Bresnick will check you the day after surgery. You will be provided special garments for your liposuction surgery and can wear these under your clothing for several weeks after surgery. These garments are like a leotard, and support the treated areas to speed healing and shrinkage. Most patients can return to work within a week or less and may resume exercise within several weeks.
Additional Procedures
Many patients combine liposuction surgery with other cosmetic procedures to take advantage of one healing time and to enhance other body regions. Cosmetic breast surgery and facial surgery are commonly done simultaneously with liposuction. Common procedures done at the same time of liposuction are:
Breast augmentation: The breasts are enhanced with breast implants.
Breast augmentation with lift: The breasts are made fuller with placement of breast implants and the breast tissue and nipple are lifted at the same time creating "perky" breasts.
Eyelid lift (blepharoplasty): This procedure makes the eyes appear more alert and youthful with removal of fatty bags and excess skin.
Forehead lift (browlift): The forehead lift gives a more youthful forehead by lifting the brows and tightening the forehead area.
Lip augmentation: This procedure restores the fuller lips of youth and improves vertical lines around the mouth.
Laser resurfacing or dermabrasion: These procedures improve fine wrinkles around the eyelids, crows feet areas, mouth, and chin.
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