Liposuction is a very popular procedure that is used to remove localized areas of fat from the body and help give patients a slimmer, more balanced, and thinner look. Recently, new technology and improved techniques have vastly improved the amount of pain commonly associated with liposuction procedures. Dr. Pearl has extensive experience in performing liposuction and has maintained beautiful cosmetic results for his patients. Paris physician Yves-Gerard Illouz pioneered liposuction and made it common place in Europe. Dr. Harvey Zarem worked with Yves-Gerard Illouz and performed the first liposuction in the United States. Dr. Pearl benefitted from working with and learning from Dr. Zarem and now uses this knowledge for his patients.
The ideal candidate is in good overall health, but has one or more problem areas where there are fat deposits that simply will not go away. Liposuction is not a solution for significant weight loss, but rather is used to remove excess fat in localized areas after the patient has attempted other traditional weight loss methods.
Common treatment areas for Liposuction include:
- Abdomen and Flanks
- Thighs
- Arms
- Back
- Hips
- Neck
- Buttocks
- Chest
- Face and Neck
- Calves
- Ankles
Oftentimes this procedure is combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as a facelift, breast reduction or tummy tuck, to achieve maximum results.
Liposuction is performed on an outpatient basis, depending on the area being treated and the amount of fat that will be removed. Dr. Pearl makes several tiny incisions in the treated area, the fat is infused with tumescent fluid that minimizes bleeding and pain, and then a fine cannula is inserted through the incisions to suction out the fat. One stitch is needed after liposuction since the incisions are small enough to heal on their own.
Liposuction Surgery–Recovery and Results
Common side effects of the procedure include mild swelling, bruising and discomfort in the treated area. Compression garments can be used to help reduce these symptoms while healing takes place. Patients usually can return to work and regular activities within a few days. Strenuous activities such as exercise should be avoided for a few weeks. Dr. Pearl will give you special instructions on how to care for your treated area and reduce any complications after the procedure.
As long as a healthy, active lifestyle is maintained, results of the liposuction surgery can be permanent. After surgery, patients will experience gradual visible results as healing occurs and as swelling and bruising subside. It could take several months for the complete surgery results to be recognized.
To learn more about the liposuction procedure, we encourage you to call us and schedule a consultation with Dr. Pearl.
