What to Expect During Liposuction

When dieting and exercise fail to eliminate stubborn pockets of fat, many people turn to liposuction. This procedure helps to remove fat cells from areas that are not responsive to healthy lifestyle choices. 

There are several types of liposuction. Treatment may differ on the extent of the liposuction, or how much fat is being removed. While liposuction is often an outpatient procedure, some require an overnight stay in a hospital or treatment facility. You can expect the following during fat removal treatment with liposuction:

Before Liposuction

Prior to the surgery, patients are required to undergo a complete physical exam to determine candidacy for the procedure. Ideal liposuction patients are at healthy weights and keep up a consistently healthy eating and exercise routine. These patients benefit from liposuction to target stubborn areas of fat that have not come off, despite regular healthy choices. 

On the day of the surgery, targeted areas of are marked. In addition to a local anesthesia, patients are given the option of an oral or intravenous sedative or general anesthesia for the procedure.

During and After Liposuction

During the procedure, Dr. Minns follows the marked line to make small incision. A special hollow tube, called a cannula, is inserted into the incision. About as wide as a skinny pen, the cannula is then moved back and forth to remove fat cells.

Recovery time and final results vary due to several factors, including how much fat was removed and patient cooperation with recovery instructions. In the days and weeks following your procedure, you may experience soreness at treatment sites. Typically, you will need to wear special compression garments to control any swelling and may be prescribed pain medication and antibiotics to reduce the risk of infection.

When Considering Liposuction

It is important to note that while liposuction is highly effective for smoothing out troublesome areas, it is not a treatment for significant weight loss. Patients that fail to maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine often experience weight gain redistributed to non-treated areas. Additionally, full results may take some time to settle and finalize.
Dr. Eric Minns can help you achieve the slimmer look you’ve been looking for with liposuction treatment in Lubbock, TX. If you have questions about cosmetic plastic surgery, our office is happy to help assist you in finding the treatments that will help you meet your goals. Contact us today for your consultation.