After dieting and exercising, you may consider liposuction if you still struggle with unwanted fat in specific spots. Although it's not an overall weight-loss method, it can help with stubborn areas like the hips, thighs, or abdomen. Determine if this treatment is right for you by consulting the guide below.

A Brief Guide to Liposuction

Why do people get liposuction?

Some people have difficulty losing fat through diet and exercise in specific body parts, including the stomach, buttocks, or upper arms. With liposuction, doctors use specialized tools to remove deposits in these areas. 

After the procedure, the skin will mold itself to the treated sites, creating a more even and contoured body shape. Liposuction can also be used for breast reduction or treating gynecomastia in men. 

Who is a good candidate for the procedure?

Candidates for liposuction include people with an average body weight who have too much fat in one or two problem areas. It can be unsuccessful or pose a health threat to individuals with poor skin elasticity or conditions like heart disease, diabetes, or a compromised immune system. Also, those with a body mass index (BMI) above 25 could consider other procedures, such as gastric bypass surgery. 

How is the procedure done?

Before the procedure, a surgeon will administer either local or general anesthesia to ensure you don't feel pain. Then, they will make a small incision in your skin. They will insert a small instrument, called a cannula, to break up or liquify the fat. 

Using a suction pipe, the surgeon will remove excess fatty tissue before closing up the incision site with stitches. Most patients are ready to go home within an hour or two after waking up from anesthesia.

What happens after liposuction?

After the procedure, you could experience some soreness and bruising around the treatment site. You may also need to wear a compression garment for several weeks, which speeds up recovery and reduces swelling. 

While liposuction can provide a contoured appearance, it's possible to gain weight again. Therefore, maintain your new results by staying hydrated, exercising regularly, and eating a healthy diet consisting of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

If you're interested in liposuction, count on Dakota Plastic Surgery to safely and effectively deliver quality results. They have offered various surgical and nonsurgical treatments to residents throughout South Dakota, Minnesota, and North Dakota since 2001, helping clients achieve the look they've always wanted. Learn more about their approach to liposuction online, and schedule your free consultation today at (605) 725-5030.