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Frequently Asked Questions about
Liposuction
How is the liposuction procedure performed?
What can I expect during my initial consultation?
Is there anything I need to do to prepare for liposuction?
How long does the liposuction procedure take?
Is anesthesia used during a liposuction procedure?
Will I be able to return home on the same day as my liposuction procedure?
Following my liposuction procedure, how long must I wait to return to work?
What areas of the body can be treated with liposuction?
Will there be scars following my liposuction procedure? .
How old should I be before I undergo liposuction?.
How is the liposuction procedure performed?
Liposuction may be performed in one of two ways, by the tumescent technique or by Ultrasonic Assisted Lipoplasty (UAL). By liposuction methods involve small incisions being made near the area to be treated, a high pressure vacuum to remove the fat, stitching the treated areas, and a protective garment to contain swelling.
The tumescent technique involves saline solution and local anesthetic being injected prior to suctioning. These fluids make the area swollen, which enhances the separation of fat cells from other tissue. This liposuction technique is more precise, results in less blood loss, and allows more fat to be removed.
Ultrasonic Assisted Lipoplasty (UAL) is a more recent liposuction technique. UAL liquefies the fat by ultrasound. This allows for a smoother and more efficient suctioning of fat.
What can I expect during my initial consultation?
If you are considering liposuction, Dr. Delgado will first meet with you to discuss and evaluate your health, as well as discussing your expectations following the procedure. He would provide computer imaging to help you visualize your results. You will be required to provide Dr. Delgado with you complete medical history. This includes all medications you have taken and are currently taking, allergies, previous surgeries, and any other pertinent health information.
Is there anything I need to do to prepare for liposuction?
If you smoke cigarettes, stop smoking. Obviously, smoking causes a number of health problems. If you are undergoing a liposuction procedure, or any cosmetic procedure, smoking can greatly increase the risk of complications related to bleeding and other circulatory problems.
On the day of your liposuction procedure, you may not eat or drink anything eight hours prior to the procedure. Any medications you take must be evaluated and approved by Dr. Delgado.
How long does the liposuction procedure take?
The amount of time your liposuction procedure will take depends on the size and number of areas being treated. Most liposuction procedures are completed in two to four hours. Dr. Delgado will be able to give you a more precise time estimate during your consultation.
Is anesthesia used during a liposuction procedure?
If you are only having a small area treated, you will have your liposuction procedure performed under local anesthesia. If you will be having several areas or a large area treated, your liposuction procedure will be performed under general anesthesia, intravenous sedation, or epidermal anesthesia.
Will I be able to return home on the same day as my liposuction procedure?
In most cases, patients are able to return home on the same day as their liposuction procedure. However, like most surgery, you will not be able to drive yourself home. If you choose to have a large area treated, Dr. Delgado may suggest you stay the night for observation.
Following my liposuction procedure, how long must I wait to return to work?
Most liposuction patients are able to return to work within a week. You will also be able to function regularly within this time. However, you should probably wait several weeks before you return to more strenuous activities or exercise.
What areas of the body can be treated with liposuction?
Liposuction can treat any part of the body that contains fat. Most patients use liposuction to remove fat deposits on the thighs, hips, abdomen, and neck.
Will there be scars following my liposuction procedure?
Yes, virtually every type of surgery leaves scars. Dr. Delgado understands that you want these scars located in the most inconspicuous areas so they can be covered with regular clothing. Dr. Delgado will discuss with you where you will have these scars placed in order to cause you minimal inconvenience.
How old should I be before I undergo liposuction?
Dr. Delgado suggests his patients are at least eighteen years of age. Most people continue developing into their early twenties. If you choose to undergo liposuction at too young an age, you may need to have the procedure repeated. During your initial consultation, Dr. Delgado will evaluate whether your body is developed enough to undergo liposuction.