Have a Body You Can be Proud of What to Expect With Liposuction
April 17, 2009 by Plastic Surgery Information
Filed under Liposuction
Liposuction is a medical procedure in which surgeons physically remove fat from subcutaneous deposits. There are a number of different liposuction techniques generally employed. The process typically involves sucking out the fat deposits with a device called an aspirator through a tube called a cannula. Physicians often inject fluid or otherwise emulsify the fat deposits for easier suction.
There are many different types of liposuction available. So-called “dry liposuction” is rare, since wet and tumescent surgeries have proven easier, safer, and more aesthetically sound. Tumescent, laser-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, and water-assisted liposuction therapies may also be considered.
Liposuction can be performed under general or local anesthesia. Ideally, patients are locally anesthetized to limit the possible side effects and complications of general anesthesia. In a number of wet liposuction techniques, fluid is injected subcutaneously to emulsify the fat to make it easier for aspiration. This fluid often contains an anesthetic (such as lidocaine), a vasoconstricting agent, such as epinephrine, and a saline solution to ensure a static osmotic balance in the body.
In laser-assisted surgery, a laser beam emulsifies fat via electromagnetic radiation. In ultrasound-assisted liposuction, high energy sound waves bombard the area to be treated and literally smash fat cells open, liquifying their contents. Ultrasound liposuction was initially a very popular alternative to traditional wet liposuction. However, studies found that ultrasound liposuction created a higher risk of fluid pocket formation.
In preapring for the procedure, most patients are forbidden from taking anticoagulants for 14 days prior to surgery. Patients who must undergo general anesthesia are typically prohibited from eating in the hours prior to surgery, as well. Finally, liposuction patients must forgo smoking and nicotine gum for several weeks before surgery, since nicotine can have an adverse effect on both circulation and tissue functionality.
On the day of surgery, the patient will sign a consent form, take antibiotics, and discuss last minute preparations with the surgeon. A sedative is then given — either intravenously or orally — and the surgeon then makes an incision to drain the adipose tissue. Most patients under local anesthesia report feeling some sensation at the area of suction — typically a scraping feeling — but ordinarily go home the same day. Complications from liposuction are relatively rare — one out of every 200 patients experiences a minor complication and only one out of every 500 patients experiences a major complication, according to a published report in the trade journal, Dermatologic Surgery.
Following surgery, patients may experience a number of side effects, including reduced ability to move, slight scarring and swelling, bruising at the site of surgery, pain and numbness, and some dizziness. If you experience severe symptoms that don’t respond to over-the-counter medications, contact your doctor right away. Incision areas are often left un-sutured for a day or two to drain whatever fluids remain. Swelling, numbness, and bruising can persist for a few weeks to several months after the operation. For patients who have large adipose deposits, several liposuction surgeries may be required to ensure satisfactory results.
Controlled tumescent liposuction can be a safe and effective way to combat the long-term complications of obesity, such as diabetes, arthrosclerosis, and heart disease. However, liposuction patients should also school themselves on the physiology of obesity. Contrary to what many in the public (and medical establishment) believe, the notion that obesity is caused by a combination of overeating and underexercising is but a hypothesis. In fact, this hypothesis has not stood up very well against the data collected over the past hundred years. Epidemiologists and physicians have found again and again that obesity and malnutrition coexist both in populations and patients. In other words, contrary to all that we’ve been taught by dietary authorities, fat regulation may not, in fact, be determined by “caloric balance.”
Fat tissue does not simply act as a “bag.” Adipose tissue is complex, and it is regulated by the body’s hormonal system. The competing hypothesis to the “caloric balance” idea (which has pervaded every aspect of our medical culture) is the idea that obesity is caused by the dysregulation of fat tissue. In other words, something causes us to get fat, and then our body remembers this “set point” and returns our fat levels to that set point, regardless of how much we exercise or how many calories we intake.
The important insight here is that liposuction alters the body’s regulation of adipose tissue by literally removing some of it. The key to safe and effective weight loss, according to this alternative hypothesis of why we get fat, is to avoid doing whatever caused the fat dysregulation in the first place. And mounting evidence suggests that, for the vast majority of the obese, simple carbohydrates in the diet may be at fault. To read up on this alternative hypothesis, check out award winning science journalist Gary Taubes’ book, Good Calories, Bad Calories.
A diet low in simple carbohydrates and sugars combined with carefully performed liposuction therapy can permanently and positively transform your body. Whether you consider the health benefits of primary importance or just a nice fringe benefit along with your physical transformation, you will, in fact, reduce your risks of developing any number of debilitating conditions.
Thanks to Joel A Allen for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
There are many different types of liposuction available. So-called “dry liposuction” is rare, since wet and tumescent surgeries have proven easier, safer, and more aesthetically sound. Tumescent, laser-assisted, ultrasound-assisted, and water-assisted liposuction therapies may also be considered.
Liposuction can be performed under general or local anesthesia. Ideally, patients are locally anesthetized to limit the possible side effects and complications of general anesthesia. In a number of wet liposuction techniques, fluid is injected subcutaneously to emulsify the fat to make it easier for aspiration. This fluid often contains an anesthetic (such as lidocaine), a vasoconstricting agent, such as epinephrine, and a saline solution to ensure a static osmotic balance in the body.
In laser-assisted surgery, a laser beam emulsifies fat via electromagnetic radiation. In ultrasound-assisted liposuction, high energy sound waves bombard the area to be treated and literally smash fat cells open, liquifying their contents. Ultrasound liposuction was initially a very popular alternative to traditional wet liposuction. However, studies found that ultrasound liposuction created a higher risk of fluid pocket formation.
In preapring for the procedure, most patients are forbidden from taking anticoagulants for 14 days prior to surgery. Patients who must undergo general anesthesia are typically prohibited from eating in the hours prior to surgery, as well. Finally, liposuction patients must forgo smoking and nicotine gum for several weeks before surgery, since nicotine can have an adverse effect on both circulation and tissue functionality.
On the day of surgery, the patient will sign a consent form, take antibiotics, and discuss last minute preparations with the surgeon. A sedative is then given — either intravenously or orally — and the surgeon then makes an incision to drain the adipose tissue. Most patients under local anesthesia report feeling some sensation at the area of suction — typically a scraping feeling — but ordinarily go home the same day. Complications from liposuction are relatively rare — one out of every 200 patients experiences a minor complication and only one out of every 500 patients experiences a major complication, according to a published report in the trade journal, Dermatologic Surgery.
Following surgery, patients may experience a number of side effects, including reduced ability to move, slight scarring and swelling, bruising at the site of surgery, pain and numbness, and some dizziness. If you experience severe symptoms that don’t respond to over-the-counter medications, contact your doctor right away. Incision areas are often left un-sutured for a day or two to drain whatever fluids remain. Swelling, numbness, and bruising can persist for a few weeks to several months after the operation. For patients who have large adipose deposits, several liposuction surgeries may be required to ensure satisfactory results.
Controlled tumescent liposuction can be a safe and effective way to combat the long-term complications of obesity, such as diabetes, arthrosclerosis, and heart disease. However, liposuction patients should also school themselves on the physiology of obesity. Contrary to what many in the public (and medical establishment) believe, the notion that obesity is caused by a combination of overeating and underexercising is but a hypothesis. In fact, this hypothesis has not stood up very well against the data collected over the past hundred years. Epidemiologists and physicians have found again and again that obesity and malnutrition coexist both in populations and patients. In other words, contrary to all that we’ve been taught by dietary authorities, fat regulation may not, in fact, be determined by “caloric balance.”
Fat tissue does not simply act as a “bag.” Adipose tissue is complex, and it is regulated by the body’s hormonal system. The competing hypothesis to the “caloric balance” idea (which has pervaded every aspect of our medical culture) is the idea that obesity is caused by the dysregulation of fat tissue. In other words, something causes us to get fat, and then our body remembers this “set point” and returns our fat levels to that set point, regardless of how much we exercise or how many calories we intake.
The important insight here is that liposuction alters the body’s regulation of adipose tissue by literally removing some of it. The key to safe and effective weight loss, according to this alternative hypothesis of why we get fat, is to avoid doing whatever caused the fat dysregulation in the first place. And mounting evidence suggests that, for the vast majority of the obese, simple carbohydrates in the diet may be at fault. To read up on this alternative hypothesis, check out award winning science journalist Gary Taubes’ book, Good Calories, Bad Calories.
A diet low in simple carbohydrates and sugars combined with carefully performed liposuction therapy can permanently and positively transform your body. Whether you consider the health benefits of primary importance or just a nice fringe benefit along with your physical transformation, you will, in fact, reduce your risks of developing any number of debilitating conditions.
Thanks to Joel A Allen for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
LiposictionNewYorkCity.biz provides information and services on liposuction in New York and the surrounding area. Visit us today for more more information or visit a plastic surgeon in New York city – you’re find it with us.
Liposuction Plastic Surgery Procedures and Information
April 17, 2009 by Plastic Surgery Information
Filed under Liposuction
Liposuction (lipoplasty) is particularly well-suited for women and men who are of relatively normal weight but have isolated pockets of fat that cause certain areas of their body to appear disproportionate. Liposuction (lipoplasty) is particularly well-suited for women and men who are of relatively normal weight but have isolated pockets of fat that cause certain areas of their body to appear disproportionate. Liposuction is a procedure that can help sculpt the body by removing unwanted fat from specific areas, including the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, knees, upper arms, chin, cheeks and neck. Many patients become discouraged at having lost unwanted pounds without seeing a flatter abdomen.
Choosing a Liposuction Surgeon
Choosing a liposuction surgeon is a very important step in the decision to have liposuction surgery. Many factors are important when making this decision. One of the most important factors is the liposuction surgeon’s training and experience. Liposuction surgeons with the most training are the board-certified plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
How to Choose a Liposuction Surgeon
Before choosing a liposuction surgeon, you should learn as much as you can about the different practitioners in your area. You will want to ask lots of questions, view before and after photos of previous patients, and find out how many liposuction procedures the surgeon has performed in the past.
Technical description of liposuction surgery
The liposuction surgery consists of probe insertion to 1-3 side foramens, and fat aspiration by using the draw-lift pump. Inserted probes aspirate the released fat mechanically or ultrasonically. The aspirated region is determined in a standing position, but the surgery is performed in a supine position.
Liposuction carries greater risk for individuals with medical problems such as diabetes, significant heart or lung disease, poor blood circulation, or those who have recently had surgery near the area to be contoured. There are several types of liposuction procedures available, Tumescent liposuction involves the injection if a large amount of anesthetic into the area being treated. In ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL), sound waves are used to liquefy the fat before it is removed.
Modern liposuction techniques allow patients to remove larger amounts of excess fat, to help contour larger areas of the body. During your initial consultation, you can discuss with Doctors in the latest liposuction techniques, including syringe, tumescent, ultrasound (UAL), and Liposelection.
Are You an Ideal Candidate?
For the ideal candidate, liposuction has many benefits including improved physical appearance and self-esteem. The best candidates for liposuction procedures are individuals who are already at or around their target weight but who need help with areas of fat that don’t respond to diet or exercise
Thanks to Alien for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
Choosing a Liposuction Surgeon
Choosing a liposuction surgeon is a very important step in the decision to have liposuction surgery. Many factors are important when making this decision. One of the most important factors is the liposuction surgeon’s training and experience. Liposuction surgeons with the most training are the board-certified plastic surgeons who are certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
How to Choose a Liposuction Surgeon
Before choosing a liposuction surgeon, you should learn as much as you can about the different practitioners in your area. You will want to ask lots of questions, view before and after photos of previous patients, and find out how many liposuction procedures the surgeon has performed in the past.
Technical description of liposuction surgery
The liposuction surgery consists of probe insertion to 1-3 side foramens, and fat aspiration by using the draw-lift pump. Inserted probes aspirate the released fat mechanically or ultrasonically. The aspirated region is determined in a standing position, but the surgery is performed in a supine position.
Liposuction carries greater risk for individuals with medical problems such as diabetes, significant heart or lung disease, poor blood circulation, or those who have recently had surgery near the area to be contoured. There are several types of liposuction procedures available, Tumescent liposuction involves the injection if a large amount of anesthetic into the area being treated. In ultrasonic assisted liposuction (UAL), sound waves are used to liquefy the fat before it is removed.
Modern liposuction techniques allow patients to remove larger amounts of excess fat, to help contour larger areas of the body. During your initial consultation, you can discuss with Doctors in the latest liposuction techniques, including syringe, tumescent, ultrasound (UAL), and Liposelection.
Are You an Ideal Candidate?
For the ideal candidate, liposuction has many benefits including improved physical appearance and self-esteem. The best candidates for liposuction procedures are individuals who are already at or around their target weight but who need help with areas of fat that don’t respond to diet or exercise
Thanks to Alien for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
Read out for Plastic surgery Check out beauty and skin disorders
Liposuction Can Remove Difficult-to-lose Fat
April 4, 2009 by Plastic Surgery Information
Filed under Liposuction
Liposuction is a cosmetic surgery procedure that is performed to remove excess fat from beneath the skin. Although liposuction is not a form of weight loss, it is a way to change the shape and contour of your body. When done properly, it is an effective means of removing excess body fat in certain areas.
Even though almost everyone can have liposuction, the best candidates for this body contouring procedure are individuals who are normal or slightly over weight, with firm, elastic skin, have pockets of excess fat in areas of their body, psychologically stable, physically healthy, and people with realistic expectations.
Although age is not a large determining factor for whether you should have liposuction or not, someone who’s skin is not very elastic may have the same problems as someone with tight skin.
Liposuction is an excellent option if you have excess fat protruding from any area of your body. Your surgeon’s goal when performing liposuction procedures is to “create a smooth, even, proportionate distribution of the fat that is left behind, so that treated areas are in balance with adjacent untreated areas.”
The reason liposuction is such an appealing cosmetic procedure to so many people is because it is minimally invasive, it has proven results, and there is a fast recovery time. Also, it can be used on many different areas of the body so that you can get the results that you want. Your cosmetic surgeon will perform your liposuction procedure with your needs and goals in mind, not what is most convenient or easy.
In women, the most common procedures are the removal of excess fat from under the chin, arms, outer thighs, waist, hips, and stomach. Men, on the other hand, tend to have liposuction performed to reduce excess fat in their “love handles,” around the waist, enlarged male breasts, and under the chin.
There are three types of liposuction performed today:
· Traditional Liposuction
· Ultrasonic Liposuction (Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction or UAL)
· Tumescent Liposuction
Thanks to Lynn Fugaro for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
Even though almost everyone can have liposuction, the best candidates for this body contouring procedure are individuals who are normal or slightly over weight, with firm, elastic skin, have pockets of excess fat in areas of their body, psychologically stable, physically healthy, and people with realistic expectations.
Although age is not a large determining factor for whether you should have liposuction or not, someone who’s skin is not very elastic may have the same problems as someone with tight skin.
Liposuction is an excellent option if you have excess fat protruding from any area of your body. Your surgeon’s goal when performing liposuction procedures is to “create a smooth, even, proportionate distribution of the fat that is left behind, so that treated areas are in balance with adjacent untreated areas.”
The reason liposuction is such an appealing cosmetic procedure to so many people is because it is minimally invasive, it has proven results, and there is a fast recovery time. Also, it can be used on many different areas of the body so that you can get the results that you want. Your cosmetic surgeon will perform your liposuction procedure with your needs and goals in mind, not what is most convenient or easy.
In women, the most common procedures are the removal of excess fat from under the chin, arms, outer thighs, waist, hips, and stomach. Men, on the other hand, tend to have liposuction performed to reduce excess fat in their “love handles,” around the waist, enlarged male breasts, and under the chin.
There are three types of liposuction performed today:
· Traditional Liposuction
· Ultrasonic Liposuction (Ultrasound Assisted Liposuction or UAL)
· Tumescent Liposuction
Thanks to Lynn Fugaro for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
If you want to have your natural beauty enhanced through liposuction the experienced and specialized hands of Dr. Vasdev Rai, contact him today to schedule a confidential consultation in his Dallas, Texas cosmetic surgery office.
Picking A Manhattan Liposuction Doctor
March 29, 2009 by Plastic Surgery Information
Filed under Liposuction
Even though liposuction is considered cosmetic surgery it still has some of the same risks as any other type of surgery. A good Manhattan liposuction specialist can make all the difference in the outcome of your liposuction procedure. You want the best results possible and here are some tips for choosing the right Manhattan plastic surgeon.
Where - Lipsuction can be done in a variety of places, from a cosmetic surgeons office up to a major hospital. The right setting is important, but not nearly as important as the cosmetic surgeon doing the procedure.
What Cosmetic Surgeon - Honestly any doctor can perform liposuction, so make sure you’re working with aboard certified plastic surgeon for the very best results. There are no laws regarding the type of training that needs to be done prior to performing liposuction. Do your research and make sure that your cosmetic surgeon is both trained and experienced. They should have the knowledge and skills to ensure that your liposuction is successful.
The Cosmetic Surgeons Role - The cosmetic surgeon should do a complete evaluation prior to agreeing to accept you as a patient. This should include a review of your general health as well as your reasons for having liposuction. The doctor should inquire about any past medical history as well as any medications you may be taking currently. Naturally he will evaluate your current body fat percentage as well as the elasticity of your skin. Your cosmetic surgeon should then be able to make a determination of your best liposuction technique to ensure great results.
What to do if you choose the wrong doctor - Mistakes do occur, even to the most vigilant of us. There are a very low percentage of liposuction patients who have serious complications, but if you choose the wrong doctor your chances of a poor surgery increase dramatically. Even if you don’t have complications there is an increased chance that you’ll have a result you didn’t want and aren’t happy with.
Choosing the right liposuction surgeon - These are my 4 tips to choosing the right liposuction surgeon.
Check out the facilities that your cosmetic surgeon will be using for the liposuction procedure. They should be in good repair, clean and sanitary. Ask for a tour prior to the surgery. Any good plastic surgeon will be happy to show you the facilities and answer any questions you might have.
Educate yourself about liposuction. You don’t need to be an expert, but you should have a basic understanding of the different types of liposuction and how it works. This will also aid you in asking the right questions when searching for a liposuction specialist.
Don’t just pick the first plastic surgeon you talk to, take the time to speak with several before making a decision. If there are people that you trust who’ve already had liposuction or another plastic surgery get their opinion. Your primary care physician could be another good source of information about good plastic surgeons.
Research the doctor’s background and history. Make sure they are well trained and experienced and hopefully board certified to practice liposuction.
New York is a large diverse city and finding a great liposuction doctor should be easy. Just take your time when choosing a Manhattan liposuction surgeon and you shouldn’t have any trouble. Just keep in mind that you’re dealing with your health and appearance and you should be able to make a good decision.
Thanks to Steven Walters for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
Where - Lipsuction can be done in a variety of places, from a cosmetic surgeons office up to a major hospital. The right setting is important, but not nearly as important as the cosmetic surgeon doing the procedure.
What Cosmetic Surgeon - Honestly any doctor can perform liposuction, so make sure you’re working with aboard certified plastic surgeon for the very best results. There are no laws regarding the type of training that needs to be done prior to performing liposuction. Do your research and make sure that your cosmetic surgeon is both trained and experienced. They should have the knowledge and skills to ensure that your liposuction is successful.
The Cosmetic Surgeons Role - The cosmetic surgeon should do a complete evaluation prior to agreeing to accept you as a patient. This should include a review of your general health as well as your reasons for having liposuction. The doctor should inquire about any past medical history as well as any medications you may be taking currently. Naturally he will evaluate your current body fat percentage as well as the elasticity of your skin. Your cosmetic surgeon should then be able to make a determination of your best liposuction technique to ensure great results.
What to do if you choose the wrong doctor - Mistakes do occur, even to the most vigilant of us. There are a very low percentage of liposuction patients who have serious complications, but if you choose the wrong doctor your chances of a poor surgery increase dramatically. Even if you don’t have complications there is an increased chance that you’ll have a result you didn’t want and aren’t happy with.
Choosing the right liposuction surgeon - These are my 4 tips to choosing the right liposuction surgeon.
Check out the facilities that your cosmetic surgeon will be using for the liposuction procedure. They should be in good repair, clean and sanitary. Ask for a tour prior to the surgery. Any good plastic surgeon will be happy to show you the facilities and answer any questions you might have.
Educate yourself about liposuction. You don’t need to be an expert, but you should have a basic understanding of the different types of liposuction and how it works. This will also aid you in asking the right questions when searching for a liposuction specialist.
Don’t just pick the first plastic surgeon you talk to, take the time to speak with several before making a decision. If there are people that you trust who’ve already had liposuction or another plastic surgery get their opinion. Your primary care physician could be another good source of information about good plastic surgeons.
Research the doctor’s background and history. Make sure they are well trained and experienced and hopefully board certified to practice liposuction.
New York is a large diverse city and finding a great liposuction doctor should be easy. Just take your time when choosing a Manhattan liposuction surgeon and you shouldn’t have any trouble. Just keep in mind that you’re dealing with your health and appearance and you should be able to make a good decision.
Thanks to Steven Walters for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
To find out more about plastic surgeons in NYC and if plastic surgery is for you visit the authors website.
Are You a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
March 27, 2009 by Plastic Surgery Information
Filed under Liposuction
Doctors define a good candidate for liposuction as any person who has realistic expectations, is in good health and is likely to be happy with the results of liposuction. Liposuction is not a weight loss technique, or a solution for obesity. It is also not an effective treatment for cellulite, a condition that gives your skin an uneven, dimpled appearance. However, liposuction is a good procedure for to reduce fat deposits in your problem areas.
Health and Mindset
In terms of health, doctors recommend that you are within 25 lbs of your ideal body weight. Patients that are physically fit and exercise regularly, but just can’t tone or reduce fat in a few problems areas are some of the best candidates for liposuction. Some bulges are simply exercise-resistant, and liposuction may provide a solution. It is not recommended for patients with significant medical problems such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, or poor circulation. These conditions can increase your risk for surgical complications.
Both men and women can be excellent candidates for liposuction. Approximately 75% of patients are female and they most commonly have liposuction performed on the belly, the buttocks and thighs. In men the most common location for liposuction in men are the “love handles”. While it is not age is not a major consideration, it is important for older patients to realize that because of diminished skin elasticity, they may not be able to achieve the same results as younger patients with tighter skin. Patients over 40 must recognize that skin contraction is less likely and loose skin can result.
Remember that liposuction should be used in conjunction with a good diet and exercise, not as a substitute for them. Liposuction, like other cosmetic surgery techniques, is a means to enhance body shape. But it cannot completely change your shape. You should have realistic expectations that liposuction may improve the appearance of the treated area, but may have no impact on other areas of your life.
Liposuction Ain’t Cheap
Liposuction can be a difficult surgery to estimate cost. It can be performed on different parts of the body, using different machines and by surgeons with varying degrees of skill and experience.
The average cost to have liposuction performed in one area of the body is close to $4,000, in two to three areas up to $6,000 to $8,000 and in five areas is $8,000 to $11,000.The cost is higher for larger body areas. For example, the average cost for the abdomen is $4,000 to $8,000, but for the outer thigh is about half as much.
As with most plastic surgery liposuction cost comprises three fees: surgeon fees, anesthesia fees and facility fees. The anesthesia fees range can range $500 to $1,000, depending on the number of areas treated. The facility fees also vary depending on the number of areas where liposuction is performed, ranging from $600 to $1,200. The rest of the cost is the surgeon’s fee.
But don’t try to skimp on the surgeon’s fee by going with just anyone. It is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, who has extensive liposuction experience, as well as expertise in all areas of plastic surgery. More highly, qualified, board-certified surgeons charge higher fees, but this also ensures you will see the best results using the most appropriate techniques and reduce the risk of complications. Although liposuction prices can be high, the costs to your health can be much greater, so be sure to ask your surgeon about surgical training and board certification.
Cosmetic surgery such as liposuction is never covered by insurance. But if the surgery is more than you can afford at one time, ask your plastic surgeon about payment plans. Most surgeons today offer financing.
Thanks to John Perry for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
Health and Mindset
In terms of health, doctors recommend that you are within 25 lbs of your ideal body weight. Patients that are physically fit and exercise regularly, but just can’t tone or reduce fat in a few problems areas are some of the best candidates for liposuction. Some bulges are simply exercise-resistant, and liposuction may provide a solution. It is not recommended for patients with significant medical problems such as diabetes, heart or lung disease, or poor circulation. These conditions can increase your risk for surgical complications.
Both men and women can be excellent candidates for liposuction. Approximately 75% of patients are female and they most commonly have liposuction performed on the belly, the buttocks and thighs. In men the most common location for liposuction in men are the “love handles”. While it is not age is not a major consideration, it is important for older patients to realize that because of diminished skin elasticity, they may not be able to achieve the same results as younger patients with tighter skin. Patients over 40 must recognize that skin contraction is less likely and loose skin can result.
Remember that liposuction should be used in conjunction with a good diet and exercise, not as a substitute for them. Liposuction, like other cosmetic surgery techniques, is a means to enhance body shape. But it cannot completely change your shape. You should have realistic expectations that liposuction may improve the appearance of the treated area, but may have no impact on other areas of your life.
Liposuction Ain’t Cheap
Liposuction can be a difficult surgery to estimate cost. It can be performed on different parts of the body, using different machines and by surgeons with varying degrees of skill and experience.
The average cost to have liposuction performed in one area of the body is close to $4,000, in two to three areas up to $6,000 to $8,000 and in five areas is $8,000 to $11,000.The cost is higher for larger body areas. For example, the average cost for the abdomen is $4,000 to $8,000, but for the outer thigh is about half as much.
As with most plastic surgery liposuction cost comprises three fees: surgeon fees, anesthesia fees and facility fees. The anesthesia fees range can range $500 to $1,000, depending on the number of areas treated. The facility fees also vary depending on the number of areas where liposuction is performed, ranging from $600 to $1,200. The rest of the cost is the surgeon’s fee.
But don’t try to skimp on the surgeon’s fee by going with just anyone. It is important to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon from the American Board of Plastic Surgery, who has extensive liposuction experience, as well as expertise in all areas of plastic surgery. More highly, qualified, board-certified surgeons charge higher fees, but this also ensures you will see the best results using the most appropriate techniques and reduce the risk of complications. Although liposuction prices can be high, the costs to your health can be much greater, so be sure to ask your surgeon about surgical training and board certification.
Cosmetic surgery such as liposuction is never covered by insurance. But if the surgery is more than you can afford at one time, ask your plastic surgeon about payment plans. Most surgeons today offer financing.
Thanks to John Perry for contributing this article to our Plastic Surgery blog:
John has authored many liposuction articles and has also reviewed several liposuction surgeons in New York City.
