Liposuction Questions
How does liposuction work?
Liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure that uses suction to remove excess fat tissue from specific regions of your body. Small incisions are made in the skin, and a narrow tube, called a cannula, is inserted. Suction then draws the fat cells out of the body through the cannula. Because of advances in the liposuction procedure, it is now less invasive than ever before. It also requires a shorter recovery period and presents a much lower risk for complications than it has in the past.
How long is the recovery period after liposuction?
It takes several weeks for full recovery after liposuction. During the first 24 hours, you may need assistance to ensure you are able to take your prescribed medications and properly perform aftercare recommended by Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. Kun Kim.
For about three weeks, you will be asked to wear support garments at all times. After this, you may wear the garments only at night. These garments help speed healing and prevent excessive drainage.
Bruising and swelling will gradually fade over time. You may experience numbness in the areas where fat was removed. This, too, will fade over several weeks. In all cases, be sure to follow the instructions Dr. Kim provides for the best possible recovery and long-term results.
Is liposuction only used for body contouring?
Initially, liposuction was developed for body contouring – to remove fat deposits from the abdomen, thighs and upper arms in particular. However, liposuction is now used on the face to remove excess fat that produces a jowly appearance to the neck and chin area. Liposuction can also be used to contour the cheek area.
Who is a good candidate for liposuction?
A good candidate for liposuction has fat deposits that have not responded to long-term diet or exercise. The best candidates are close to their ideal body weight, but have small, stubborn deposits that still create concern or self-consciousness.
A candidate for liposuction should be in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome of the procedure. The more information you have about liposuction and what it can and cannot accomplish for you, the more likely you are to be pleased with the results. Patients who do not smoke can also expect better results and faster healing.
Please contact our Atlanta plastic surgeon Dr. Kim today to schedule your initial consultation at Kim Facial Plastic Surgery. 770-458-4255