Liposuction / Body Contouring for Men
Liposuction (or lipoplasty) is a body-sculpting procedure to remove fat that is unresponsive to dieting and exercising. This procedure can be applied to nearly any area of the body and is commonly used on multiple areas during an operation. Liposuction results in a slimmer and better proportioned figure. Liposuction is used effectively to reduce love handles, saddlebags, a double-chin, a bulge around the waistline, or other unsightly fatty deposits in order to develop a better shape and create a more beautiful body.
Liposuction is a common cosmetic surgical procedure for both men and women. In our practice, liposuction can be performed either under general anesthesia or with sedation and local anesthetic only. The procedure can be performed in many different body areas and is an outpatient surgery.
Common liposuction areas include the submental area (under the chin), the flanks (love handles), the abdomen, and the thighs. We also offer liposuction of the breasts, arms, knees, legs, and ankles.
The liposuction procedure involves multiple steps. After anesthesia is initiated, very small incisions are made in the skin of the areas to be suctioned. A solution containing saline (the body’s natural fluid), lidocaine (local anesthetic), and epinephrine (minimizes bleeding) is then infused into the fatty tissues that are going to be suctioned. A liposuction cannula is then used to remove the excess fat. After the actual liposuction is finished, the small incisions are closed and dressings are placed. Special surgical garments are then placed as well.
After liposuction all patients experience swelling during the first week. This is completely normal and expected. After one week, the swelling begins to subside. After approximately one month, the swelling is gone but the skin is still shrinking. By three months, the true surgical results can be seen.
Recovery from liposuction is fairly easy and most patients are able to return to work within one to two weeks. Patients do have to wear surgical garments for a period of six weeks to help smooth results without dents or bumps. (Patients having neck liposuction only wear garments at night after four or five days).
Reasons for Considering Liposuction
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Eliminate fat from any of the following areas:
- Chin and Neckline
- Back
- Upper Arms
- Stomach and Waistline
- Hips and Buttocks
- Thighs and Knees
- Calves and Ankles
- Create a more proportioned figure
Liposuction is not a replacement for proper exercise and diet. Instead, liposuction is a reduction procedure for stubborn areas where fat accumulates. Ideal surgical candidates are those already in good physical condition but having stubborn areas that do not respond to diet and exercise.
General Procedure
Liposuction can be done under general anesthesia with the patient asleep or under local anesthesia where the area is numbed and the patient remains awake. Through a tiny incision, a narrow tube or “cannula” is inserted and used to vacuum out the fatty tissue beneath the skin. The surgeon determines the amount of fat to be removed by massaging the skin and squeezing the tissue. After eliminating the excess fat, the incisions are closed by applying a compression dressing or bandage to the area in order to prevent bleeding, reduce swelling, and support the affected area.
There are several different types of liposuction procedures, such as tumescent or ultrasound liposuction, that have developed as a result of recent advancements in new technologies. Together the patient and the surgeon can discuss which method(s) are best during the initial consultation visit. Liposuction can last from thirty minutes to several hours depending upon the amount of fat to be removed. Liposuction surgery is an excellent procedure that can benefit those who want to remove unattractive fatty deposits.
Recovery Process
New techniques allow for faster recovery from liposuction procedures. The length of the recovery will depend on how extensive of an operation the patient undergoes. Generally, post-operative instructions call for plenty of rest and limited movement in order to speed up the healing process and reduce the recovery time. A support garment may need to be worn for several weeks after the surgery, depending upon which area(s) are selected to utilize the liposuction procedure. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with surgery which can be treated effectively with oral medication. While complications are rare, patients can minimize the risk for potential problems by carefully following the directions given after surgery.
Expertise of Carey Nease, MD and Chad Deal, MD
Dr. Deal has trained surgeons from around the world in a facial rejuvenation course sponsored by the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery in March of 2011. He has been selected to present at the 2011 American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery's Fall Symposium.
- American Board of Cosmetic Surgery
- American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
- American Board of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery
Dr. Nease is a Fellowship Director of the American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery and trains surgeons from around the country the latest techniques in cosmetic surgery. It is a one-year training program open to current ABMS certified general surgeons, plastic surgeons and head and neck surgeons. He is also a Board-Examiner for the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery.
