Liposuction

About the Procedure

Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures. It offers safe and effective fat removal and is often combined with other types of cosmetic surgery. Liposuction removes unwanted fat from beneath the surface of the skin, and can be performed on the neck (double chin) and several areas of the body, including the abdomen, flanks, thighs and knees. Liposuction is not meant to be used as weight management strategy. Ideal candidates for liposuction have exercise and diet resistant pockets of fat that they would like to get rid of. Visit this website’s knowledge base to find our more about The Science of Fat Storage.

Benefits of Liposuction

Liposuction treats problem areas that don’t go away, regardless of diet and exercise. Liposuction removes pockets of fat and contours the area, which often results in a slimmer shape and smoother fitting clothes.

How the Procedure Is Performed

Your surgeon creates tiny incisions near the area where the fat will be removed. Next, your surgeon will insert a thin vacuum tube through the incision, into the deep fat layer. The cannula is moved back and forth and the fat is broken up and suctioned out of the skin.

Common Areas for Liposuction

• Abdomen
• Flanks
• Hips
• Thighs
• Knees
• Arms
• Tummy

Are You a Good Candidate

The ideal candidate for liposuction is someone who is within 25 pounds of their ideal weight and has realistic expectations of surgery.

Physical Features

You may be a candidate for liposuction surgery if you are bothered by any of the following physical features:

• Areas of stubborn fat that are resistant to diet and exercise
• Your are within 25 pounds of your ideal weight

General Health

You may be a candidate for liposuction if you are in general, in good health:

• You have normal blood pressure
• You are not taking blood thinners, or your family physician can safely recommend that you stop taking them for two weeks

Recovery

Time Off Work

• Most people take one to two weeks off work, depending on where the liposuction is performed

Back to Normal Activities

• You can resume normal activities, such as light household work and taking a gentle stroll, the day after surgery
• You can resume light fitness activities, such as jogging or yoga, two to three weeks after surgery
• You can resume vigorous fitness activities, such heavy weight training or high impact cardio, four weeks after surgery
• You should avoid bending over and lifting heavy objects for two weeks after surgery

Bikini/Bathing Suit Ready Ready

• You will have evidence of bruising and swelling for up to three months, however most people are comfortable in a bathing suit one month after surgery
• You incisions will fade over time

Complete Recovery

• The incisions fade over time and often become nearly imperceptible

Risks & Complications

All surgeries have associated risks. Your surgeon will review the risks and benefits of the surgery in detail during your surgical consult. In general, complications of liposuction, while not expected, include:

• Risk of infection
• Risk of bleeding
• Risk of poor wound healing
• Risk of patient dissatisfaction with cosmetic result

Combination Body Shaping Procedures

Vancouver liposuction is often combined with liposuction tummy tuck surgery Complete Tummy Tuck. This combination is particularly popular with mothers who are frustrated by the body changes that occurred as a result of pregnancy. Find out more about Post Pregnancy Body Changes in this website’s knowledge base.

Is Liposuction Right for You?

While the information on this site is extensive, it is not designed the replace the skill and expertise of a board certified plastic surgeon. Use the information to help you explore the possibilities and educate yourself about the typical recovery period of cosmetic surgery. While this site provides general information about cosmetic surgery as it related to the average person, it cannot be used as a tool for people to decide which surgery is best for them. Only a thorough consultation with board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Watts can provide the specific information required to make an informed decision about surgery. To find out which surgery is most appropriate for you, please Request a Consult.

Next Steps

Ready to Discuss Your Cosmetic Surgery Needs With a Board Surgeon? Schedule a Consult

If you are ready to book a consult, please Request a Consult. If you would like to learn more about what to expect during a surgical consult, please go here.

Not Sure You Are a Candidate? Use Our Virtual Consult Form

Not everybody is a candidate for cosmetic surgery. To save time, we have launched a Virtual Consultation tool. Upload your photos, provide some information about what you would like to change, and we will provide a complementary evaluation. Find out more about the Virtual Consultation here.