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What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a popular plastic surgery option for removing fat. It is considered a body contouring procedure, meaning that the purpose of liposuction is to sculpt the body for a preferred shape or proportion. Liposuction is completed by inserting a cannula into a small incision in the treatment area to suction fat away. The procedure is usually performed under general anesthesia, but some patients can complete their liposuction surgeries with local anesthesia alone. Dr. Falcon can advise which options are right for you during a consultation appointment. Our Natrona Heights Office is located 9 miles from Leechburg and 14 miles from Apollo.

Liposuction can be used to sculpt many areas of the body and is often used to achieve the intended results of other procedures such as a tummy tuck. Some common treatment areas for liposuction include:

  • Thighs
  • Hips and buttocks
  • Abdomen and waist
  • Upper arms
  • Back
  • Inner knee
  • Chest area
  • Cheeks, chin, and neck
  • Calves and ankles

Am I a Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction candidates are usually dissatisfied with the contour or proportions of an area of their body such as the abdominal area, flanks, thighs, or upper arms. Because liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure, candidates should be at or close to a healthy and stable weight and living a healthy, active lifestyle despite some stubborn unwanted fat. In addition, it is important to have firm, elastic skin to prevent loose or excess skin after the procedure. Finally, as with all surgeries, it is important to be generally healthy and a non-smoker.

During a consultation, Dr. Falcon will examine the treatment area, review your health history, and work to understand your goals for the procedure. This allows him to decide whether liposuction is your best option to achieve your body contouring goals.

“Dr. Falcon was very nice, his staff are very friendly, and during and after surgery I felt VERY cared for -- every step of the way!”

-Matthew P

What Can I Expect from Liposuction Recovery?

After liposuction, you will likely have drains in place in addition to a compression garment. These help to reduce swelling and encourage proper healing. You should arrange for a trusted family member or friend to drive you home from the surgery and care for you in the early stages of recovery. Especially early in recovery, you can expect swelling and some discomfort. Dr. Falcon can prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable as you heal. Most patients require about two weeks away from work, school, or other responsibilities after liposuction so they can rest and recover. Some residual swelling can last a month or more, but most patients feel fully recovered and begin to see their final results about 4-6 weeks after their procedure.

Schedule a Consultation

If you are curious about liposuction, Dr. Falcon can answer any questions that you may have. To learn more about the procedure, schedule a consultation by calling our office at 724.226.3900 or contacting us online. Falcon Plastic Surgery’s Monroeville Office is conveniently located 17 miles from Downtown Pittsburgh and 10 miles from Irwin.

Are you put to sleep for liposuction?

Liposuction is typically performed using local anesthetic and sedation when it’s not combined with other surgical procedures. If you undergo liposuction in combination with a tummy tuck, for example, you’ll be put under general anesthesia.

Can I get liposuction if I am overweight?

To be considered a good candidate for liposuction, you should be at or near your ideal weight. That’s because weight fluctuations can negatively impact your results.

How dangerous is liposuction?

Liposuction comes with risks like any other surgery, but you can mitigate them by selecting a board-certified plastic surgeon. You’ll discuss the risks of liposuction during your consultation.

How do I prepare for liposuction?

You’ll be given detailed preparation instructions ahead of your appointment. You may need to stop taking certain medications according to your plastic surgeon’s instructions and wear loose, comfortable clothing. You should also arrange for a close friend or family member to drive you home.

How long do you need off work after liposuction?

Most patients are able to return to work within 1-2 weeks of surgery. If you work an office-based job, this time period may be sufficient. If you work a more labor-intensive job, you may need to take 3-4 weeks off.

Who is good candidate for liposuction?

Good candidates for liposuction are patients who have stubborn pockets of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. You should be at or near your ideal weight and have healthy habits established so you can maintain your results.

Does fat come back after lipo?

Once fat cells are removed from your treatment area, they can no longer expand with weight gain. If you do gain weight, you may gain it in other areas, however.

How painful is liposuction recovery?

Liposuction comes with some discomfort which can be managed with medications. Make sure to take them according to instructions so you can focus on resting.

When can I exercise after liposuction?

You can generally return to light exercise like walking within 2-3 weeks but should wait 4-6 weeks before returning to your normal exercise regimen. Your plastic surgeon can give you the best indication of when it’s okay to begin working out again.

How can I shower after liposuction?

You can shower 1-2 days after surgery but avoid vigorous scrubbing and make sure to pat the incisions dry. Avoid soaking in the bath, pool, or hot tub for at least 2 weeks.

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