Liposuction is a well-known and increasingly common cosmetic surgery procedure. It can be performed as a standalone body-contouring procedure or as part of another surgery, such as a tummy tuck. Before you consider liposuction, it’s important to be informed about the procedure. Here are five commonly asked questions about the liposuction procedure.

What is liposuction?

Liposuction is a procedure that breaks down and removes unwanted fat from just under the skin. Often, stubborn pockets of fat can remain despite a healthy diet and exercise. Liposuction can permanently remove these fat cells.

Where can liposuction be performed?

Liposuction can be performed in many areas throughout the body. These commonly include:

• Neck (either “double chin” or back of the neck)
• Upper Arms
• Chest (male or female)
• Outer Thighs or “saddlebags”
• Inner thighs
• Bra Strap Area
• Abdomen
• Hips: “Muffin Top” or “Love Handles”

Is liposuction a way to lose weight?

Even though it removes fat cells, liposuction is not considered a weight loss procedure. It is meant to contour the body, and should only be performed if you are close to your ideal weight.

What’s recovery from liposuction like?

After liposuction, it’s common to experience some soreness, bruising, and swelling. Dr. Shaddix will instruct you to wear compression garments as you heal to help minimize swelling and ensure proper healing. You may also be prescribed pain medication to ease discomfort.

Recovering from liposuction does not take long; most patients can return to all normal activities including exercise after 2-4 weeks have passed. The total length of your recovery will depend on the extent of your surgery and how much fat has been removed.

Will I have scars from liposuction?

Liposuction typically does cause scarring.  However, these are very small and oftentimes imperceptible.  Additionally, Dr. Shaddix places the scars in very inconspicuous areas. The tool used for liposuction is called a cannula.  The cannula is inserted into the body through a very small incision to break up and remove the fat. Multiple incisions may be necessary depending on the number of access points needed to achieve the best contour.

Schedule a Consultation

To learn more about liposuction, schedule a consultation with Dr. Shaddix. Call our Pensacola office at (850) 359-3863 or contact Shaddix Plastic Surgery online.