Liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure which can alter the shape and contour of the body by removing excess fat in selected areas. Liposuction is often referred to as liposculpture and, in skilled hands, it can sculpt the body and bring out a beautiful form. This cosmetic procedure is extremely safe and can produce excellent results that permanently change the shape of the body. Liposuction may be performed on its own though it is often performed along with or as part of other cosmetic procedures, such as abdominoplasty or breast augmentation.
Good candidates for liposuction include men and women who are in good health and looking to improve the shape and contour of the body. The procedure can be particularly effective on areas of the body that have proven resistant to diet and exercise. Dr. Vitenas performs liposuction in his office operating suite and at the adjacent Day Surgery Center, an outpatient facility at Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital. General anesthesia is used and the procedure can take anywhere from one to four hours to perform depending on the size and number of areas treated.
Liposuction is performed through small incisions which are placed in inconspicuous areas, such as the natural creases of the skin. Dr. Vitenas uses the “super wet technique” in which a solution containing saline, lidocaine, and epinephrine is first injected into the treatment area, causing the fat to become swollen and firm. A small cannula, or hollow tube, and suction device are then used to remove the fat. The super wet technique allows for larger volumes of fat to be safely removed without the need for blood transfusions.
The recovery after liposuction takes about one week. Patients may experience some numbness, soreness, or a burning sensation, and any discomfort that patients experience can be managed with medication. Bruising and swelling after liposuction are common, though these side effects tend to be minimized with the super wet technique. A compression garment similar to a girdle may need to be worn for several weeks after surgery. Work can typically be resumed after one week, though more strenuous activities may need to be postponed for four to six weeks.
Q – What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a plastic surgery procedure which removes excess fat in select areas in order to improve the shape and contour of the body.
Q – Who is a candidate for liposuction surgery?
Men and women who are in good health and looking to improve the body shape and contour may be good candidates for liposuction.
Q – What should I expect during a consultation for liposuction?
During the consultation for liposuction, Dr. Vitenas will go over your complete medical history, take the time to understand your goals, and answer all of your questions. You will see pre-op and post-op photos of previous liposuction patients, and computer imaging will be used to help you visualize your own personal results. Dr. Vitenas will discuss reasonable and expected outcomes, and explain the details of the procedure including the technique, the recovery, the risks, the costs, and financing options.
Q – Where is the surgery for liposuction performed?
Dr. Vitenas performs the liposuction procedure in his office operating suite and at the adjacent Day Surgery Center, an outpatient facility at Memorial Hermann Southeast Hospital.
Q – What is the price for liposuction cosmetic surgery?
In general, the total cost of liposuction includes the anesthesia fee, the facility fee and the surgeon’s fee. The price can range from $4,500 – $10,500 depending on the surgical technique, the areas being treatment and level of correction that is desired. For a more specific idea of the cost of the liposuction procedure feel free to upload your photos to our contact us form.
Click here to continue reading frequently asked questions about liposuction surgery
