More than 400,000 patients had liposuction in 2016 according to the American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, making it the most popular surgical cosmetic procedure in the United States.
There is a good reason that so many patients are interested in liposuction; it can provide the individually tailored body sculpting results that people truly appreciate. Patients also appreciate that this minimally invasive technique is done on an outpatient basis and requires a very short recovery time.
The best way to get optimum results is to make sure that you are an informed and educated patient before your consultation. Asking your plastic surgeon the following ten questions will help you make the right decision.
1. Are you board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery?
This is a question you should ask even before you schedule a liposuction consult. Do some research online and make sure that the plastic surgeon you choose for a consultation is board-certified by the ABPS. If they are board-certified it means that they have undergone extensive training in their specialty and that they routinely pass rigorous board certification exams. Three of the surgeons at Edina Plastic Surgery are fully board-certified.
2. Who is a good candidate for liposuction?
Liposuction should not be considered as a treatment for obesity; it is best used to treat stubborn, excess fat deposits that cannot be resolved by diet and exercise. The best candidates are patients who are healthy, exercise regularly and have realistic expectations of the procedures’ results.
3. What are the benefits of liposuction?
With continued healthy eating and diet, the effects of the liposuction procedure can be permanent. This procedure helps to smooth and contour the skin; and it can result in a dramatic improvement in appearance.
4. What type of liposuction will be performed?
When your doctor meets with you they will suggest the type of liposuction that is best suited for your particular needs. The right technique for your situation may depend on several factors, including treatment location, the extent of correction desired, and your doctor’s personal protocols. Ask your surgeon which type of liposuction they perform on a routine basis; a skilled doctor will be experienced in a variety of techniques.
5. Can I have liposuction at the same time as another cosmetic procedure?
It is very common for patients to have liposuction at the same time as another procedure such as a tummy tuck or a breast augmentation or lift. Your doctor will be able to tell you whether you are a good candidate for multiple procedures.
6. If I choose to have liposuction will the results be permanent?
When liposuction is performed, the fat cells that are removed do not return. However, if the patient experiences future weight gain, the surrounding fatty tissue can still expand. Ask your surgeon for ideas on how to best maintain your liposuction results for the long-term. They will have advice on how to best retain your newly refined physical contours.
7. Where will my liposuction procedure be performed?
Because liposuction is normally performed as an outpatient procedure, you will need to arrange for a ride home after the procedure. At Edina Plastic Surgery we perform liposuction procedures at our own state-of-the-art accredited surgical center which is located within our clinic. Some surgeons use an off-site day surgery facility that can be miles from their clinic location, so make sure you are familiar with that location and that it is convenient for you.
8. What type of anesthesia will be used?
Liposuction surgery is typically done under adequate anesthesia to allow your surgeon to do the very best job possible. For larger areas, this will be a general anesthetic. While local anesthesia can be used for smaller areas, there are limits to the area that can be done safely with this technique.
9. How long does the liposuction procedure take?
Traditional liposuction typically takes approximately three hours or less to complete. In some cases where large areas or multiple areas are being treated at the same time, the procedure can take longer.
10. Is there anything I need to do beforehand to prepare for my surgery?
First and foremost, patients are advised to quit smoking before the liposuction procedure. Smoking can prolong healing of wounds. You may also need to discontinue certain medications as they can cause bleeding issues during surgery. Ask your doctor for pre-procedure instructions.
