liposuction.
stubborn fat?
Many patients yearn for a sleek and sculpted physique. Many of you may have dedicated hours in the gym in fitness class, or counting calories to control your diet. Despite these efforts, even the most physically fit individuals find stubborn pockets of fat that won't let go! For those of you striving for the body of your dreams, liposuction may be the solution for you.
Liposuction is a method that removes unwanted fat through tiny, imperceptible incisions. As every one of you has a unique starting point and differing body goals, liposuction is a procedure that is customized to you. Dr. Lisa Hwang takes the time to get to know you--she will figure out exactly which areas bother you and set realistic expectations with what she can achieve. By applying her medical expertise and keen aesthetic eye, she will help you reveal the dazzling figure of your dreams.
goals.
Reduce fat.
Stubborn fat deposits can be extremely frustrating, especially when you feel like you're "working your butt off" to burn it! Even when weight loss occurs, certain areas tend to shed faster than others.
Liposuction can only be performed in patients with good skin elasticity. In patients with stretched out skin, liposuction should not be performed alone to avoid disfiguring contour irregularities.
Liposuction directly removes fat and can be performed in targeted areas to flatten extra rolls i.e. chin, armpits, "love handles," thighs, etc. Weight gain can occur after liposuction, but weight maintenance can produce long-standing, gorgeous results!
SCULPT.
Liposuction is not only about removing excess fat, but also sculpting the body into an aesthetically ideal shape. Women generally yearn for the Hourglass, while men strive for the V-shape.
Patients may be strong and fit with well-developed muscle, but even a thin layer of fat can obscure it. High definition liposuction can precisely contour the musculature to produce a more athletic and lean physique.
enhance.
Liposuction can be combined with other procedures, namely tummy tuck and Brazilian Butt Lift for enhanced results!
Patients with significant abdominal stretch marks, skin laxity, and rectus diastasis (bulging belly) should elect to undergo tummy tuck, with liposuction as an adjunct procedure to finesse the results with gorgeous contouring.
For patients who wish to achieve a round and curvy derriere, fat harvested from liposuction can be transferred to the buttocks, a procedure known as the Brazilian Butt Lift.
types of liposuction.
Various methods of liposuction are available, but the most important variable you can choose is your plastic surgeon. These techniques mainly differ in technology and equipment. Entrusting your body to skilled hands, an aesthetic eye, and a deep understanding of your desires is ultimately what will get you the outcome you envision.
traditional.
Tumescent liposuction injects a solution that facilitates extraction and minimizes bleeding. It utilizes a metal cannula without additional technology.
Power-assisted.
Power-assisted liposuction (PAL) utilizes a vibrating hand piece to facilitate disruption of fat cells. Even though the vibration may potentailly speed up the procedure, the hand piece is heavier and more difficult to handle.
ultrasound.
Ultrasound-assisted liposuction (PAL) uses ultrasonic vibrations to disrupt fat cells. UAL can be applied either externally or internally. It can also be performed with the tumescent technique to minimize bleeding.
laser.
Laser-assisted liposuction LAL) uses laser energy to liquefy fat cells. In addition, the laser energy stimulates collagen production, enhancing skin tightening. These probes are smaller; thus, the procedure is confined to smaller areas.
surgery.
Liposuction varies widely among patients. Depending on the targeted areas, surgery can range up to 4 hours; it can also be combined with other procedures. Surgery is performed at a surgery center under general anesthesia. After surgery, patients are dressed with compression garments, which provide support in the postoperative period. Patients can go home the same day, accompanied by a responsible adult for 24 hours.
recovery.
Over the first couple days, you may notice significant red-tinged fluid draining from the skin incisions. Don't worry--if it's watery, it is likely residual tumescent fluid that was injected during surgery. You may also notice swelling, burning, and bruising. Bruising should resolve within the first 2 weeks. Swelling improves by 1 month, but the areas remain firm, gradually softening up over 3 to 6 months.
activity.
The most important thing to do after surgery is to stay well-hydrated and to walk! Walking encourages blood flow in the legs to prevent blood clots from forming. Liposuction can be major surgery in large volume cases (even though the tiny incisions make you think otherwise); even the most active patients must rest to aid in recovery. Please refrain from any heavy lifting over 10 pounds. Patients are generally recommended to take 1 to 2 weeks off work; patients with sedentary jobs may return to work earlier. At 3 weeks, you can begin to resume more active exercise, as tolerated. As liposuction can be widely variable, please consult with Dr. Hwang for specific instructions.
risks & complications.
Risks of liposuction include bleeding, infection, delayed wound healing, changes or loss in sensation, contour deformity, scarring, and asymmetry. Most importantly, patients should be aware of the risk for developing blood clots in the legs/lungs, as this can cause serious morbidity if missed. Tightness/pain in calves or shortness of breath within the first 10 days after surgery should be evaluated.
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