Thinking of Removing Stubborn Fat with Liposuction? Here is What You Should Know

If you are looking for different ways to remove stubborn fat, you may consider getting liposuction or lipoplasty. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure that removes fat from specific areas in the body using surgical techniques. Usually, doctors target fat in the chin, abdomen, thighs, buttocks, back, and arms. If you are thinking of going for Beverly Hills liposuction, Dr. Joshua Jacobson can help. Meanwhile, read on to determine if liposuction is the best procedure for you.

Can anyone get liposuction?

While liposuction removes stubborn fat, it is not a weight-loss alternative. Therefore, if you are trying to lose weight or lose cellulite, use other strategies.

Ideal candidates should be within their healthy body weight and have firm, elastic skin. Doctors also check your blood flow and don’t recommend the procedure for anyone with blood pressure issues, heart issues, diabetes, or other conditions that may interfere with the treatment.

Set realistic expectations for your liposuction. Also, consult a plastic surgeon to determine if you are a fit candidate for the procedure.

You’ll want to have realistic expectations. The results vary depending on the amount of fat removed. While the procedure removes excess fat, it does  not contour the skin or remove cellulite dimpling. However, the results are permanent if you maintain the same weight.

Also, elastic skin molds itself around the body smoothly after the procedure. However, inelastic skin around treated areas may appear loose.

What happens during liposuction?

• First, the doctor examines you to verify if you qualify for the procedure. On the surgery date, the doctor first sedates you to reduce pain. You can choose local anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or general anesthesia for comfort during the procedure.
• Then the doctor cuts an incision in the target area, inserts a thin tube into the target area to loosen the fat, and sucks it out of the body using a vacuum or syringe. Dr. Jacobson uses VASER® (vibration amplification of sound energy at resonance) liposuction, which liquefies fat and delivers smooth results.

Is liposuction painful?

Everyone has a different pain tolerance level, but the procedure is painless because of anesthesia. However, recovery may be painful, especially when shifting positions and walking. You may feel soreness, but nothing severe. Also, your doctor will recommend painkillers for the pain and inflammation. Ice packs are also great for reducing swelling.

What are the risks involved?

As with most surgeries, liposuction carries a risk. However, hiring a professional cosmetic surgeon reduces the risks as much as possible.

• Contour anomalies: Sometimes, your skin may appear dimpled and bumpy due to uneven fat distribution and inelastic skin. Liposuction cannot correct these errors and may damage the skin, causing permanent spots.
• Fluid build-up: The surgery may cause fluid accumulation under the skin. This fluid needs to be drained with a needle by your cosmetic surgeon.
• Numbness and tingling: You may feel temporary numbness in the damaged area.
• Infection: Infection around the wound may occur. Fortunately, medication and sanitation eliminate germs and prevent disease.
• Fat embolism: An embolism occurs when a piece of loose fat clogs a blood vessel and travels to the heart or lungs.
• Kidney or heart problems: The shifting fluid levels due to liposuction may stress your kidney or heart. Remember, a licensed and experienced professional will examine you before recommending you for liposuction to ensure a safe procedure and minimize risks.
• Lidocaine toxicity: Lidocaine is a common pain management fluid used during liposuction. It may have adverse nervous effects on some patients.

Call or book your consultation online with Dr. Joshua Jacobson for professional liposuction services.