One of the most popular and minimally invasive plastic surgeries, liposuction is a body contouring procedure that helps eliminate excess fat around the body, including the thighs, hips, belly, and butt. This procedure also aids in tightening excess skin, which may result in a firm, natural, and youthful-looking body. Liposuction is an ideal procedure to get rid of fat when diet and exercise alone are not working.
An added benefit of liposuction is that the fat that is removed from trouble areas of the body can be transferred to enhance fullness in other places. It is a great procedure for getting rid of love handles, unsightly bulges, and other imperfections when an intensive procedure, like a tummy tuck, is not needed.
At the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Sauerhammer helps patients near Oshkosh, Wisconsin, achieve their aesthetic goals with liposuction.
Procedure Explained
Liposuction, known in the medical community as lipoplasty, is a common plastic surgery that offers targeted reduction and skin tightening. Liposuction is performed by using advanced lasers, ultrasound energy, and specialized cannulas, which break down fat cells and allow them to be safely, easily, and comfortably suctioned from the body.
This procedure can be performed in a variety of body areas to meet individual needs, including the hips, thighs, stomach, and butt. Liposuction can also be performed on the arms, the neck, and the face.
Benefits
There are extensive benefits to liposuction, including:
- Liposuction offers long-lasting results.
- It can be combined with other plastic surgeries depending on individual goals.
- The procedure can be used on both men and women to help them reshape their bodies.
- The procedure could treat certain medical conditions, such as lymphedema, where excess lymph fluid collects in tissues and causes swelling.
- It can also assist in removing fatty, benign tumors.
- Liposuction may help slim down features that are unresponsive to a healthy diet and exercise.
Candidates
Like any surgery, a board-certified plastic surgeon will want to ensure you are a good candidate for liposuction prior to performing the procedure.
You could be considered a good candidate if you:
- Are in good physical health
- Have realistic expectations regarding the outcomes of the procedure
- Cannot eliminate excess fat even though you participate in exercise and follow a healthy diet
- You have firm, elastic skin, and positive muscle tone
- You are willing to give up smoking and alcohol before and after surgery to enable a good recovery
- You have specific body contouring goals
- You do not suffer from any serious illnesses or medical conditions, such as obesity
Considering this information, if you feel that you are a good candidate for liposuction, reach out and schedule a consultation with Dr. Sauerhammer of the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery.
Cost
In order to determine the exact cost of your liposuction procedure it will be necessary to consult with Dr. Sauerhammer at Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery, as prices will vary based upon where you would like to have fat eliminated as well as if you anticipate the procedure being coupled with other surgeries.
However, the average cost for liposuction in one area of the body is approximately $5,700. For two areas of the body, that price could be approximately $8,300.
Process
The liposuction procedure will take place on an outpatient at our local facility. Prior to the procedure beginning, the doctor will mark the areas of the body that will be treated. Photos for before and after comparisons might also be taken.
Then, general anesthesia will be administered, allowing you to experience no pain during the procedure. Once you are asleep, Dr. Sauerhammer will use specialized tools to remove excess fat via an incision site.
The procedure may last several hours depending on how much fat is being removed. Once it is over, you will be taken into a recovery room.
Recovery
Once you are awake and the results of the anesthesia wear off, you will be free to go home. You will need to have a friend or loved one waiting as you will not be able to drive.
Expect some pain, swelling, and bruising after the procedure. As such, your surgeon will prescribe you medication for pain control as well as antibiotics to prevent an infection. You will likely have to wear some tight compression garments for a few weeks to reduce swelling while also taking a bit of time off work so you can rest. Additionally, expect to take some time off from exercising and other strenuous activities.
Prior to your results being fully visible, expect some contouring irregularities as the remaining fat settles into position and distributes itself to allow for a leaner look.
Are you interested in learning more about liposuction near Oshkosh, Wisconsin? Reach out to Dr. Sauerhammer at the Wisconsin Institute of Plastic Surgery today.