Liposuction is a semi invasive body sculpting procedure, created to improve the shape and contour of the figure. By removing unwanted fat in a target area, liposuction can bring out a beautiful form, eliminating stubborn fatty tissue that is resistant to exercise and diet. Also known as Liposculpture, or Lipo; when performed by an experienced professional with skillful hands, the procedure can restore the body’s youthful curves. This cosmetic procedure is extremely safe and can produce excellent results that permanently change the shape of the body. Liposuction can create dramatic results on its own, though it is often performed along with or as part of other cosmetic procedures, such as abdominoplasty, tummy tuck or breast augmentation for optimal results.
The best candidate for liposuction will be in overall good health and frustrated with isolated areas of excess fat. Those seeking youthful contours can find significant benefits with liposuction. Dr. Vitenas’ liposuction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis at the Houston Surgery Center; located on the second floor of the Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery building on Richmond Avenue. The surgery will take from one to four hours to complete, depending on the size and number of areas treated.
Liposuction will be 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 will take about one week. Patients may experience some temporary numbness, soreness, or possibly a burning sensation. Dr. Vitenas will relieve discomfort with appropriate pain medications; allowing for a comfortable recovery. 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 post-operatively. Most patients feel will feel well enough to return to school or jobs that do not require vigorous activities in about one week. Exercise, heavy lifting, and strenuous movement should be postponed for four to six weeks. Click here to see more before and after photos.
Liposuction FAQ:
Q – What is liposuction?
Liposuction is a semi invasive technique designed to remove excess fat in select areas, in order to improve the shape and contour of the body.
Q – Could I make a good candidate for liposuction?
Anyone who is looking to change their body shape and contour, and is in generally good health, may make an appropriate candidate for liposuction. Ideal patients will fully understand the technique and will have reasonable expectations for the outcome of their procedure.
Q – What will happen during my liposuction consultation with Dr. Vitenas?
Your liposuction consultation provides a time to get to know Dr. Vitenas, as well as find out more information on the procedure. At this time, the surgeon will explain the technique in full, and review possible complications from the procedure. After he has performed a quick physical exam, Dr. Vitenas will discuss your personal aesthetic goals. He will have before/after photographs of his recent liposuction patients on hand, helping to display your potential results. If liposuction is the right procedure for your needs, the exact cost will be established and a patient coordinator will review payment options.
Q – Where does Dr. Vitenas perform the liposuction procedure?
For patient convenience, the liposuction procedure will be performed at the Houston Surgery Center. This accredited facility is on the second floor of the Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery building.
Q – What does liposuction cost?
The price for liposuction will range from $7,500 – $15,000, depending on the technique and the specific area being treated. The cost will cover the surgical fees, the operating room, anesthesiologist, and all follow-up care. At your consultation, the exact price will be determined.
Q – Is anesthesia used during liposuction?
Dr. Vitenas will generally use general anesthesia during his liposuction procedures.
Q – What happens during the liposuction procedure?
Dr. Vitenas uses the “super wet” technique for liposuction. For this technique, the treatment area is first infused with a solution containing saline, Lidocaine, and epinephrine which causes the fat to become swollen and firm. A small cannula, or hollow tube, is then inserted through small half-inch incisions and the fat is suctioned out. The super wet technique allows for the safe removal of large volumes of fat without the need for blood transfusions.
Q – How long is the liposuction procedure?
Liposuction may take between one and four hours, depending on the number and size of areas being treated.
Q – Will I have scarring after my liposuction procedure?
Liposuction incisions are very small and well-concealed, normally placed in inconspicuous areas like the natural creases of the skin, which will result in imperceptible scarring.
Q – Is liposuction painful?
While there may be soreness or a burning sensation after liposuction, Dr. Vitenas will prescribe the needed pain medications for a comfortable, peaceful recovery.
Q – How long will my liposuction recovery last?
Recovery from the liposuction procedure normally takes about five to seven days.
Q – What should I expect during my liposuction recovery?
There may be some bruising, swelling, and numbness after your liposuction procedure. However, many of the newer techniques, including the super wet technique, are associated with decreased bruising and swelling. A special compression garment, similar to a girdle, will need to be worn for several weeks after the procedure.
Q – How soon can I return to work after liposuction?
On average, most people are well enough to return to work in a week or less, after a liposuction procedure.
Q – Can I exercise after liposuction?
Strenuous exercise will need to be postponed for four to six weeks after a liposuction procedure, giving the body time to fully heal.
Q – What are the possible complications with liposuction?
Liposuction is considered a safe procedure, but has the small chance for complications to occur. These can include bleeding, infection, scarring, seroma, blood clots, and fat embolism.
Q – Do I have the option to finance my liposuction surgery?
Yes, Vitenas Cosmetic Surgery accepts healthcare financing through CareCredit. Contact a patient coordinator, or visit our financing page for more information.
