Liposuction

The human body has a tendency to store excess fat in the most unbecoming places. However, excess body fat, in specific locations, can be removed by high vacuum suction with a high degree of patient safety, when performed correctly and when proper precautions are taken.

Patients with localized excess body fat may complain about large hip rolls, bulky thighs, excessive abdominal fat, bulky arms, and fat beneath the chin, all of which detract from the body’s natural proportion. The removal of excess body fat from the subcutaneous tissues through liposuction is an effective method for selectively contouring the body.

Areas which respond well to liposuction include the abdomen, thighs, hips, knees, upper arms, chin, and the chest area in males.

The most important issue in liposuction plastic surgery procedures is patient safety. This relates to the amount of fat removed, the body area suctioned, and whether or not the liposuction is performed in conjunction with other large cosmetic plastic surgery procedures.

The combination of liposuction with an abdominoplasty, or tummy tuck surgery, for example, can significantly increase the risk of serious complications. At Fairbanks Plastic Surgery Center, the amount of fat removal is carefully monitored, and we do not recommend performing liposuction procedures in conjunction with other large cosmetic surgery procedures. We follow all parameters carefully to insure the utmost in patient safety.

There are a number of techniques available for performing liposuction; including ultrasound assisted liposuction, power assisted liposuction (which utilizes an oscillating cannula), water assisted (tumescent) liposuction, and laser assisted liposuction. We consider laser liposuction, which kills fat cells, to be dangerous and fraught with unnecessary complications. We therefore recommend against it. Despite catchy names, it offers no advantage to the patient.

A hand syringe technique is also available. This causes less damage to the fat. This technique is typically used in situations where the fat is to be grafted to another part of the body, such as the breasts, face, hands, etc.,.

Our plastic surgeons will discuss the pros and cons of each technique during your consultation.

Liposuction is a highly effective method for removing localized excess fat. There is a period of post-operative swelling, and one cannot appreciate the final result until the swelling has subsided. The process of maturation and softening goes on for a number of months.