Liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure that focuses on improving body contours. This procedure targets localized fat cells using conservative suction to sculpt various areas of the body. The goal of liposuction is to improve a person’s shape. By eliminating stubborn fat, liposuction can achieve long-lasting slimming effects that can be maintained with good eating and exercise habits.

Adults in good health may seek liposuction to fulfill a personal desire for better body contours. The procedure is not intended for weight loss but for sculpting areas such as the abdomen, back, hips, buttocks, thighs, or other areas. The best results are obtained when the patient commits to healthy lifestyle choices that promote stable weight.

Liposuction is a minimally-invasive surgery that can be performed in numerous areas of the body. Combining surgical skill with the artistry of sculpture, a surgeon can refine the contours of the body to create better overall proportions. In some cases, liposuction can be performed using a local anesthetic and IV or oral sedation. Regardless of the type of anesthesia used, patients typically recover from their liposuction procedure in a week to ten days, making liposuction a low-downtime, maximum-impact procedure.

Dr. Gear values patient-centered care that begins at the very first visit. When you consult with us about liposuction, you can expect to be informed of the full extent of the pros and cons of this procedure. The objective is to empower you to make the decision that is fully within your best interest. For liposuction, it is beneficial to look at the areas where contouring is desired and observe not only the amount of fat-reduction that is possible but also the condition of the skin. When the skin is very loose, liposuction results may be less satisfactory. If deemed appropriate, Dr. Gear may recommend liposuction combined with some form of skin tightening. In addition to discussing your cosmetic goals and medical history, your consultation is the time to ask any questions you have about the liposuction procedure, recovery, or alternative treatments to achieve your desired outcome.

Once you arrive and change into a surgical gown, Dr. Gear marks your skin in the treatment areas. You might receive general anesthesia to help you rest during your procedure, or you may receive a local anesthetic that numbs the treatment area, but allows you to remain awake.

There are several different types of liposuction techniques, and Dr. Gear chooses the method that’s best for your specific needs. The most common technique is called tumescent liposuction and uses a sterile saline solution infused with epinephrine and lidocaine to lessen both pain and blood loss.

Ultrasound-assisted liposuction is another option and uses sound waves to help destroy targeted fat cells. Laser-assisted liposuction makes use of laser energy to liquefy targeted fat. Both approaches make it easier to remove the fat from your body.

Yes. Liposuction is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed and has been for many years. While it is considered minimally-invasive, liposuction is a procedure that should only be performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon. Without proper training and clinical experience, a provider may operate with increased risks of poor surgical outcomes. Dr. Gear completed a three-year plastic surgery fellowship followed by a three-year residency in plastic surgery before being certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Throughout his career, he has maintained a strong commitment to ongoing training to elevate his skills in the performance of new, proven techniques.

Liposuction procedures are typically performed at an accredited outpatient surgery center. Before surgery begins, the team meets with the patient for a final pre-operative briefing. After this conversation, the patient receives anesthesia. The procedure is conducted through tiny incisions that accommodate a thin tube. The tube, called a cannula, is inserted beneath the skin in the area where subcutaneous fat cells live. The tube is then moved in a uniform pattern to dislodge and extract localized deposits of fatty tissue.

Liposuction can last from one to four hours depending on the parameters of the procedure. Larger treatment areas and a combination of areas take longer, while local areas such as the backs of the arms or the chin may be completed well within one hour. During your consultation, we can answer this question based on the area or areas you wish to have treated and the inclusion of any additional procedures.

Initially, after liposuction surgery, patients will likely look bruised and swollen. Until these side effects subside, the true effects of treatment are not apparent. It is necessary to wear a compression garment to help fluid move away from the surgical area and to control swelling. Post-surgical pain is typically mild and manageable with approved over-the-counter medication. While swelling and bruising decrease gradually over several weeks, patients can return to work as soon as they are physically comfortable. Those who have a physically-demanding job may need to arrange two weeks off work. Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 2 to 3 weeks.

Like all surgical procedures, liposuction carries risks for infection and bleeding. A board-certified plastic surgeon understands the limitations of liposuction and performs each procedure accordingly. Dr. Gear prioritizes both safety and natural-looking results for our patients and operates in the most precise manner to minimize the risks of contour irregularity and asymmetry.

Liposuction is performed using a small, hollow tube (cannula). Patients also receive either general anesthesia that causes a sleep state or a local anesthetic that numbs the treatment area. Tumescent liposuction, a common technique, also delivers epinephrine and lidocaine into the adipose tissue, reducing nerve sensation as well as bleeding. Patients are completely comfortable during liposuction regardless of which technique is best suited to their needs. After the procedure, minor soreness and tenderness can be managed with prescription pain medication. This may only be needed for a few days before switching to over-the-counter pain relief.

No. Liposuction is a cosmetic procedure performed to improve body contours. It is not deemed medically necessary by insurance carriers.

The cost of liposuction is comprised of several factors, including the surgeon’s fees, surgical center fees, anesthesia fees, and medical supplies. We provide a detailed outline of costs after our thorough consultation in which we discuss your unique goals and which procedure or procedures will help you achieve them.

Liposuction is designed to improve the proportions of the body by removing pockets of excess fat. This procedure can achieve outstanding visible results but is not intended for weight loss. You will see a difference when you look in the mirror and may look different in your clothes but most likely will not see a significant change on the scale.

The best candidates for liposuction are individuals who are near their ideal weight; the weight they intend to maintain with healthy lifestyle choices. If you are twenty or more pounds away from the weight you would like to enjoy, a surgeon may encourage you to lose that before undergoing liposuction. This will enable you to achieve the slimmer, more sculpted appearance you’d like.