The choice of anesthesia will depend on various factors, including the extent of the procedure and your preference.
The surgeon will make small incisions in discrete locations near the targeted areas.
Incisions may be closed with sutures or left open to heal naturally, depending on the surgeon’s preference and the extent of the procedure.
Liposuction is a popular procedure to surgically remove the unwanted, excess fatty tissue and improve the contour of certain areas of the body. It can be performed on the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, arms or neck.
An ideal candidate is within 30% of their ideal body weight, has good skin tone, and good muscle tone. Liposuction does not remove any excess skin.
Liposuction is designed to reduce fat under the skin. First the area is prepared by injection of tumescent solution for pain control and hemostasis. Afterwards a cannula is used to remove fatty tissue.
Preoperative Review: The day of surgery begins with a preoperative briefing with Dr. Domanski. We will review your goals, medical history, and concerns that you discussed in the office. Dr. Domanski will mark the areas of your body that you want to target. Marking the patient before liposuction confirms which areas are to be targeted. This is always done with the patients input.
Anesthesia: On the day of the procedure, you will be administered either general anesthesia (where you are asleep) or local anesthesia with sedation (where you are awake but numbed and relaxed). The choice of anesthesia will depend on various factors, including the extent of the procedure and your preference.
Incisions: The surgeon will make small incisions in discrete locations near the targeted areas. The incisions are less than a centimeter in size, and strategically placed to minimize visible scarring.
Tumescent technique: Prior to fat removal, a tumescent solution consisting of saline, local anesthesia such as xylocaine, and epinephrine (to constrict blood vessels) is injected into the targeted areas. This solution helps numb the area, shrink blood vessels, and facilitate the fat removal process.
Setting the tumescent: The surgeon may weight for the tumescent solution to take effect. This time may be between ten and thirty minutes. During this time, other procedures such as a breast lift, abdominoplasty, or breast augmentation may be started to maximize efficiency.
Fat removal: A thin hollow tube called a cannula through the incisions. The cannula is connected to a suction device or a syringe, which creates suction and enables the removal of excess fat cells. The surgeon will move the cannula back and forth to break up the fat deposits and suction them out. They will carefully sculpt and contour the treated areas to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome.
Wound closure: Once the fat removal is complete, the incisions may be closed with sutures or left open to heal naturally, depending on the surgeon’s preference and the extent of the procedure. In some cases, the incisions may be left open to allow for drainage of excess fluid. Occasionally, drains may be placed to minimize the risk of seroma.
Recovery and post-operative care: After liposuction, you will be monitored in a recovery area. Compression garments or dressings will be applied to the treated areas to help reduce swelling, support the tissues, and aid in the healing process. You will receive instructions on post-operative care, including how to manage discomfort, reduce swelling, and take care of the incisions.
‘Lipo’ is a popular procedure to surgically remove the unwanted, excess fatty tissue and improve the contour of certain areas of the body. It can be performed on the abdomen, flanks, back, thighs, arms or neck.
Liposuction offers several potential benefits for individuals who are looking to address specific concerns related to localized fat deposits. Some of the benefits of liposuction include:
Fat reduction: Liposuction is an effective method for removing excess fat cells from specific areas of the body, such as the abdomen, thighs, hips, buttocks, arms, back, or neck. It can help sculpt and contour these areas, improving body proportions and overall appearance. The extracted fat, if you desire, can be use to augment other areas of the body-process know as fat grafting.
Enhanced body shape: Liposuction can help create a more desirable body shape by selectively removing fat from specific areas. This can help create a more defined waistline, improved contours, and a smoother, more proportionate silhouette.
Boost in self-confidence: By achieving a more sculpted and proportionate body contour, many individuals experience an increase in self-confidence and body image. This can have positive effects on various aspects of life, including personal relationships and professional interactions.
Permanent fat cell removal: The fat cells removed during liposuction are permanently eliminated from the body. This means that the treated areas are less likely to accumulate fat in the future, as long as a healthy lifestyle is maintained.
Customizable and targeted treatment: Liposuction is a customizable procedure that can be tailored to address the specific needs and goals of each individual. Surgeons can precisely target areas of concern and remove fat cells to create the desired outcome.
Improved clothing fit: Liposuction can make it easier to find well-fitting clothes and enhance the way clothes drape and fit on the body. Removing excess fat can eliminate bulges or tightness in certain areas, allowing for a more comfortable and flattering fit.
Potential health benefits: While liposuction is primarily a cosmetic procedure, it may offer certain health benefits in some cases. For example, reducing excess fat in certain areas can alleviate discomfort, reduce the risk of chafing or skin irritation, and potentially improve mobility and physical activity levels. Some patients interested in liposuction to obtain a thigh gap notice less chaffing with exercise.
An ideal candidate is within 30% of their ideal body weight, has good skin tone, and good muscle tone. Liposuction does not remove any excess skin. Smoking greatly increases the risk of healing problems. A good candidate for liposuction is typically someone who:
Has localized areas of excess fat: The procedure is most effective for individuals who have specific areas of stubborn fat deposits that are resistant to diet and exercise. It is not intended for overall weight loss but rather for targeting specific problem areas.
Has good skin elasticity: This is critical. Liposuction removes fat, but it does not tighten sagging skin. To achieve optimal results, it’s important to have good skin elasticity, which allows the skin to conform to the new contours after fat removal. If the skin lacks elasticity, alternative procedures like a tummy tuck may be recommended to address loose skin.
Is close to their ideal body weight: Liposuction is not a weight-loss method but rather a body contouring procedure. Candidates should generally be within a reasonable range of their ideal body weight and have a stable weight. It is not suitable for individuals who are significantly overweight or obese.
Has overall good health: Candidates should be in good general health, free from any medical conditions that could increase the risks associated with surgery and anesthesia. It is important to disclose any existing medical conditions, previous surgeries, or ongoing medications during the consultation.
Has realistic expectations: It’s important for individuals considering liposuction to have realistic expectations about the outcomes and limitations of the procedure. While liposuction can significantly improve body contours, it is not a magical solution, and individual results may vary. Open communication with the surgeon and a clear understanding of the expected results is why our patients have such high satisfaction scores.
Is committed to a healthy lifestyle: Liposuction can remove excess fat cells, but it does not prevent future weight gain. It is essential for candidates to have a commitment to maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to ensure long-term results.
Liposuction can be performed on various areas of the body where localized fat deposits are present. Some of the common areas that can be treated include:
Abdomen: Liposuction can help remove excess fat from the abdominal area, including the upper and lower abdomen, to create a flatter and more defined waistline.
Hips and flanks (love handles): Liposuction can target the hips and flanks to remove stubborn fat deposits and improve the overall contour of the waist and hip area.
Thighs: Liposuction can be performed on the inner thighs, outer thighs (saddlebags), or both to reduce excess fat and improve thigh contours.
Buttocks: Liposuction can address areas of excess fat on the buttocks, such as the upper buttocks or banana roll, to create a more sculpted appearance.
Back: Liposuction can target excess fat on the upper and lower back, addressing areas commonly referred to as bra rolls or back bulges.
Upper arms: Liposuction can help reduce excess fat and improve the shape of the upper arms, commonly known as “bat wings.” Liposuction of the upper arms may be an alternative to a brachioplasty or arm lift. Upper arm liposuction has the advantage of improving contour without the scar of a brachioplasty.
Neck and chin: Liposuction can be performed on the neck and chin area to remove fat deposits and create a more defined jawline and neck contour. Neck liposuction can be performed in the office under local anesthesia. Neck liposuction can also be combined with buccal fat removal or bichectomy.
Chest (in males): Liposuction can address excess fat in the chest area, commonly known as “male breasts” or gynecomastia, to create a flatter and more masculine chest appearance.
Patients may shower the day after surgery. Liposuction generally only requires only 3-4 days of down time. You will have to wear a compression garment for the first 4 weeks following the procedure. Full results will be seen in approximately three months. The recovery process after liposuction can vary depending on the extent of the procedure, the areas treated, and an individual’s healing characteristics.
Immediately after the procedure: You will likely experience some swelling, bruising, and mild to moderate discomfort in the treated areas. Dr. Domanski may prescribe pain medication or recommend over-the-counter pain relievers to manage any discomfort. You will be advised on what type of compression garments to wear to reduce swelling and support healing tissues.
Initial post-operative period: During the first few days after liposuction, it is important to rest and allow your body to heal. You may need to take time off work and avoid strenuous activities. Our office will provide instructions on how to care for the incisions, change dressings (if necessary), and manage any drainage or fluid accumulation.
Swelling and bruising: Swelling and bruising are common after excess fat removal and may take several weeks to gradually subside. The use of compression garments, elevating the treated areas, and avoiding activities that can increase swelling can help reduce these side effects.
Physical activity and exercise: Initially, you will need to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and intense exercise. As you progress in your recovery, our office will provide guidance on gradually resuming normal activities and exercise routines.
Follow-up appointments: You will have scheduled follow-up appointments with Dr. Domanski to monitor your progress, assess healing, and remove any sutures if necessary. These appointments allow the us to ensure that you are healing well and address any concerns or questions you may have.
Long-term results: The final results of liposuction will gradually become more apparent as the swelling subsides and the body adjusts to its new contours. Liposuction works by removing fat under the skin, as well as by allowing for contracture that takes place over months. Therefore, it may take several months for the final outcome to be visible. It is important to maintain a healthy lifestyle, including regular exercise and a balanced diet, to optimize and maintain the results achieved through liposuction.
Liposuction is generally considered a safe procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. However, like any surgical procedure, it carries certain risks and potential complications. Some of the risks associated with liposuction include:
Complications related to anesthesia: Liposuction is typically performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. While rare, there are risks associated with anesthesia, including allergic reactions, respiratory problems, and adverse reactions to medications. These risks are like the risk of driving in a car. We minimize the risk of driving by wearing a seatbelt and driving at an appropriate speed. We minimize the risk of anesthesia by only operating in certified surgery centers and by maintaining hospital privileges. In order to obtain certification, a surgery center is required to have a protocol and equipment to deal with problems during anesthesia.
Infection: Infections can occur after liposuction, although they are relatively uncommon. Proper surgical techniques, sterile conditions, and post-operative care can minimize the risk of infection. Antibiotics at the start of the case, as well as after the surgery can reduce the risk of infection. We also recommend patients use hibiclens washs prior to surgery to minimize whole body bacteria.
Bleeding: Some oozing is normal after liposuction, but excessive bleeding can occur in rare cases. Surgeons take precautions to minimize bleeding during the procedure, and post-operative compression garments and monitoring helps prevent and detect any bleeding issues.
Fluid accumulation (seroma): Following liposuction, fluid accumulation known as seroma can occur under the skin. Draining the fluid with a needle is typically sufficient to resolve this issue. Sometimes a drain may need to be placed to manage a seroma. Rarely, a seroma cavity may need to be excised.
Irregular contours: In some cases, liposuction may result in uneven or irregular contours, giving the treated area an unnatural appearance. This risk can be minimized by choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon who has a thorough understanding of body proportions and contouring. Experienced liposuction surgeons understand zones of adherence, that are at increased risk of divots or other contour problems.
Skin numbness or sensory changes: Temporary numbness or altered sensations in the treated area are common after liposuction. In most cases, sensation returns to normal within a few weeks or months, but in rare cases, it can be permanent.
Skin discoloration and scarring: Liposuction may cause temporary skin discoloration, bruising, or pigmentation changes. Scarring is generally minimal and well-hidden, as the incisions used for liposuction are typically small. However, individual healing characteristics can affect the extent of scarring. We provide our patients with a scar cream to minimize the risk of poor scarring.
Deep vein thrombosis (DVT) and pulmonary embolism: These are rare but serious complications that can occur after any surgery. DVT involves the formation of blood clots in deep veins, while pulmonary embolism occurs when these clots travel to the lungs. Steps such as early mobilization and the use of compression garments can help reduce the risk of these complications.
By choosing a board-certified plastic surgeon, you are ensuring that your surgeon is skilled at performing liposuction, but also managing any rare complications that could occur.
Bluemont Plastic Surgery is an award-winning plastic surgery in Fairfax, VA. Schedule an appointment at (703)-596-1660.
You can lose 2-5 pounds with liposuction. That is because liposuction is not a weight loss surgery. Fat floats because its less dense (heavy) than water. Liposuction is a body contouring surgery that treats unwanted love handles, back rolls, neck fat, and abdominal fat. Liposuction addresses the fact between the skin and the muscles. This fat is light.
Yes! Liposuction permanently removes fat cells. The fat there will never come back. However, if you ever gain weight, you will gain weight where you have the most fat cells. We recommend that liposuction patients transition to a high protein diet after surgery to maximize their results.
Yes! Liposuction treats the fat between the skin and the six pack (rectus) muscles. The fat cells that are removed never come back. Liposuction does not treat fat cells under the six pack muscles. If you have ever known somebody with a beer belly, if you were to pinch (with permission!) their abdominal skin, you would feel muscle right under their skin. The beer belly deformity is defined my fat below the muscles. Liposuction does not address this – only diet and exercise does.
Patients describe themselves as being sore after liposuction. However, because of tumescent technique that contains numbing solution, liposuction is one of the less painful aesthetic surgeries.
If done well, yes! Make sure your surgeon is board certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Reviews of liposuction patients show high rates of satisfaction.
Sadly, we have had patients come to our office for second opinions after being told that they would lose 30 pounds with liposuction. Unfortunately, anybody who promises you that is not being honest. Diet and exercise improve weight. Liposuction is a body contouring procedure. Liposuction improve curves.
If you are having this issue, please ask your surgeon. This could be due to postoperative swelling, intrabdominal fat, or other issues.
Remember that liposuction is a body contouring procedure, not a weight loss surgery. However, we find that many patients do lose weight after liposuction because they are motivated to make a change to their lifestyle. After making this initial investment in themselves, many patients maintain their new lifestyle.
Patients who are motivated, within 30% of their ideal body weight, without loose skin (stretch marks), and do not smoke may be good candidates.
The fat removed with liposuction is long lasting, meaning years to decades! However, the “conveyer belt” of time does not stop. If you have a procedure today, it is ok to want a touch up some time in the future – and there is nothing wrong with that!
We think of scars as something that happen when you have an accident. Plastic surgery leaves incision lines.
Liposuction uses the smallest incision lines of all, called access points. Liposuction access points are about half a centimeter in size and are usually not noticeable after healing has occurred. Plastic surgeons may place liposuction access points in inconspicuous areas like inside the belly button to hide them further.
This is a very common question so we have created a specific liposuction versus tummy tuck information page here.
With over 70 plastic surgeons in the Northern Virginia area, patients choose Dr. Domanski because they trust him. We believe you will not find a more honest surgeon than Dr. Domanski.
“Be Yourself,
Everyone Else Is Taken.”
– Oscar Wilde
