Though an older cosmetic operation, liposuction remains one of the most popular aesthetic procedures due to its minimally invasive techniques and highly customizable application. Despite its continued popularity, individuals interested in liposuction still find themselves struggling to understand if and how liposuction can benefit them. Shaddix Plastic Surgery recognizes that proper candidacy is imperative to the safety and results of the patient and has compiled a comprehensive list to help interested patients better understand their candidacy.

What is Liposuction

Liposuction is one of the most minimally invasive plastic surgery options available. Dr. Shaddix creates minuscule surgical incisions large enough to insert a thin, hollow cannula. Moving the tube back and forth, stubborn fat is loosened and sucked out of the body. This procedure can be completed on relatively any area of the body, but popular fat extraction sites include the abdomen, thighs, arms, and neck.

Who Makes a Good Liposuction Candidate

Most often, individuals begin considering liposuction after dieting and exercise have failed to diminish the last few pockets of stubborn fat. When considering liposuction, ideal candidates usually possess the following traits:

Good Skin Elasticity

Liposuction focuses solely on fat removal and does not offer skin tightening benefits—patients seeking liposuction alone will need firm skin and good muscle tone to ensure there is no sagging skin with results. However, patients with low skin elasticity may consider combining liposuction with skin removal procedures.

Within a Healthy Weight Range

Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure and is intended to slim the figure rather than shed pounds of weight off the body. As a result, patients considering liposuction will need to be within 30% of their ideal weight range before undergoing the operation.

Patients Without Serious Medical Conditions

Though liposuction is minimally invasive and safe, all surgical procedures should be used with caution—certain medical conditions or prescriptions could slow the healing process or blood flow, prolonging your recovery. Being honest about your medical history during your initial consultation is imperative to a smooth process overall.

What to Know About Liposuction Expectations and Recovery

It is common for swelling and bruising to be apparent in the early stages of recovery, but most patients can typically recover at home with the assistance of a family member or friend. Patients should be prepared to heavily rest for about a week—sometimes more—before returning to moderately rigorous activity. Liposuction can take up to three months to fully heal, but most symptoms and discomfort should improve within several weeks.

Patients considering this operation should prepare for their recovery and understand swelling may hinder the result’s visibility in the beginning.

Schedule a Consultation with Dr. Kyle Shaddix at Shaddix Plastic Surgery

Shaddix Plastic Surgery has been offering exceptional liposuction treatments to Pensacola, FL for years. Dr. Shaddix and his dedicated staff are eager to help to achieve your aesthetic goals—to get started, schedule a consultation online.