The 5 Most Requested Areas for Liposuction
Posted November 26, 2018
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that is used to contour or remove excess fat in unwanted areas that are resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction should be thought of as a contouring procedure, not a weight loss procedure.
Liposuction is typically performed in an outpatient surgical center under general anesthesia. A small cannula is inserted through tiny incisions into the areas that need correction and the fat is removed. After the procedure, swelling is usually mild at the surgical site with mild to moderate bruising. This is typically resolved within 10-12 days. Any of the areas listed below can be combined into one operation.
Stomach
The most common area for both men and women is the stomach. This area encompasses the entire abdomen from ribs to pubic area. These patients have typically tried to lose weight on their own and the belly area is resistant to their change in diet or increased exercise. This area is also commonly addressed post pregnancy or can be seen with the body changes associated with age and metabolism.
Thighs
The outside of the thighs, otherwise known as ‘saddlebags’ is a common area of concern for women. The inner thigh is also an area commonly addressed by many women who are unhappy when their thighs rub together, which can create chaffing and discomfort. The satisfaction rate is high in this area as women can fit better in their clothing. Most women that have issues with their thighs have typically had these issues their entire lives and have tried to control it through exercise and diet with minimal success.
Neck/Chin
This area is usually passed on through genetics and most patients see this in immediate family members and on their profile in photographs. The fat is seen starting just below the chin and ending at the base of the jaw. Liposuction has been the most consistent method of treating this isolated fat pad. Kybella is also available as a non-surgical option but requires multiple treatments over a period of several months.
Arms
Arm procedures are becoming more popular over the last few years as more men and women get into better physical condition. This area is a more common area of concern in women than men. It is seen under the arms and extending to the elbow. It is also typically an area associated with weight loss. The tone of the skin must be considered prior to treatment as the removal of fat may result in excess skin which can only be corrected with an upper arm lift or brachioplasty.
Hips
Liposuction in the hips, or “love handles,” is as common as liposuction for the abdomen. This area extends from the back to the front merging with the side of the abdomen. Contouring the hips has an extremely high satisfaction rate as this area also makes clothing fit better and increases confidence with bathing suits and fitted pants and shirts.
Postoperatively, liposuction is a relatively easy recovery. Compression garments are continuously worn for 2-3 weeks after surgery and can be removed for showering. Most patients are able to return to work in several days and may resume exercising in approximately 1-2 weeks. Want to learn more? Head here to schedule your complimentary consultation with Dr. Antimarino.
