Liposuction | The Office of Dr. Vincent Hung
Liposuction has become the most sought-after surgical cosmetic treatment in the world because it can improve almost anyone’s physique or figure.
This procedure has seen such a significant rise in popularity because it offers an easy way to sculpt the body by removing stubborn, unwanted fat in several areas.
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), liposuction procedures were performed 325,669 times in the United States alone. Its popularity extends globally, with similar trends in many other countries.
Areas Liposuction Can Treat
One of the reasons liposuction is so popular is its versatility. This procedure can remove stubborn fat in the following areas, from the top to bottom of your body:
- Chin
- Neck
- Chest
- Upper Arms
- Upper and Lower Abdomen
- Waist
- Hips
- Buttocks
- Thighs
- Knees
- Ankles
Of these areas, the waist, belly, hips, buttocks, and thighs are the most commonly treated with liposuction. However, enlarged breast tissue in men (gynecomastia) can be treated with this procedure, and many plastic surgeons are using fat grafting, which requires liposuction, for natural breast enhancement and the Brazilian butt lift.
When more correction is needed to recontour the body, liposuction is often used along with abdominoplasty for the best results.
Liposuction is also often combined with a breast augmentation, breast lift surgery, or reduction for a Mommy Makeover.
Benefits of Liposuction
Liposuction offers several benefits, with these five topping the list:
- Targeted body contouring: Liposuction effectively removes localized fat deposits to provide contouring and shaping in areas resistant to diet and exercise.
- Fast results: While some swelling is expected, noticeable improvements in body contours are often visible shortly after the procedure.
- Less invasive: Liposuction is less invasive than other surgical body contouring methods, such as a tummy tuck (abdominoplasty).
- Shorter Recovery Period: While recovery from abdominoplasty can require two months or more, liposuction takes only two to four weeks, depending on the extent of the procedure.
- Boost in self-confidence: Achieving a more proportionate body can significantly enhance self-esteem and confidence.
How to Know if You’re a Good Candidate for Liposuction
The liposuction process begins with a personal, in-depth consultation. Choose a reputable plastic surgeon who can thoroughly evaluate your medical history and desired outcome to determine the suitability of liposuction for your needs.
The best candidates for liposuction are healthy non-smokers with good skin elasticity who have realistic expectations for the procedure.
Liposuction Procedure Overview
The procedure may be performed under local or general anesthesia. Once the appropriate anesthetic is administered, tiny incisions are made in the targeted areas.
A thin tube called a cannula is inserted through these incisions to loosen and suction out the unwanted excess fat.
When fat removal is complete, the incisions are closed, and you are monitored in a recovery area. You will be placed in a compression garment to aid in healing and reduce swelling.
The Limits of Liposuction
The popularity of liposuction is tied to its ability to provide significant body contouring improvements less invasively. While the procedure offers numerous benefits, you should weigh its limitations and undergo a thorough consultation to determine if it is the right option for you.
Each individual’s case is unique, so consulting a qualified plastic surgeon, like Dr. Hung, is crucial for personalized guidance and to address specific concerns regarding liposuction.
- Compared to abdominoplasty, which can remove belly fat, tighten loose skin, repair separated core muscles, and remove stretchmarks, liposuction is designed only to remove stubborn pockets of fat.
- Liposuction is not a substitute for weight loss, and a healthy lifestyle, including a balanced diet and exercise, is required to maintain results.
- Although rare, liposuction carries certain risks, such as infection and bleeding, which accompany any surgical procedure.
- Liposuction also involves a recovery period. While typically much shorter than that of a tummy tuck, you will need to arrange between one and two weeks to rest before returning to work or your regular activities.
Liposuction in Pasadena, CA
Dr. Vincent Hung is a highly experienced plastic surgeon serving patients from Newport Beach to Pasadena, California. His entire team is dedicated to helping individuals achieve the aesthetic goals they desire, and we welcome you to schedule a consultation. To learn more about liposuction, call 626-432-5032 today.
