Liposuction
LENGTH: 2-4 hours depending on extent
ANESTHESIA: Local, Twilight or General
IN/OUTPATIENT: Outpatient or one night in hospital depending on extent
SIDE EFFECTS: Bruising, swelling, and some pain
RECOVERY: Return to work: within 1 week, Light exercise: 2-3 weeks, Swelling completely resolve: 3-6 months
Liposuction is a procedure used to shape the body by removing fat using metal tubes called cannulas. Dramatic changes in appearance are sometimes possible using this body contouring technique however, this is not a procedure that produces significant loss of weight when measured on a scale. It is a supplement to a healthy lifestyle and not a substitute for diet and exercise.
Dr.Tran is a plastic surgeon in Arlington specializing in cosmetic surgery with significant experience in body contouring including liposuction. He received his credentials from some of the nation finest medical centers. He is certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery.
Before you decide to have liposuction, think carefully about your expectations and make sure you discuss them with Dr. Tran.
Your Liposuction Consultation
Your visit with Dr.Tran will determine if you are a good candidate for liposuction. If you are in good physical health and have reasonable expectations then this may be a good choice for you.
During your first visit, Dr.Tran will ask you about your desired appearance to help him understand your expectations and let you know if they can be realistically accomplished. He will examine you considering factors such as the quality of skin, the amount of underlying fatty tissue, and the contour of your body. Be prepared to discuss any medical conditions you may have such as allergies, prior surgeries and medications, vitamins or other supplements that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information. If you are a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking at least 3 weeks before your surgery. Dr. Tran is concerned about your health and safety and depending on your medical status may ask for additional evaluations before proceeding with surgery.
He will explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for you based on your examination and factors such as the distribution of fatty tissue and quality of skin tone. After your consultation, photographs will be taken for your medical record.
Liposuction Techniques
Depending on the extent of liposuction, your surgery will be performed under local (tumescent liposuction) or general anesthesia. If done under local anesthesia, you may request sedation to achieve a “twilight” state and help keep you comfortable during the procedure. The incisions used to access the fat are usually no larger than a few millimeters and are made in discrete areas on the body. Cannulas, or long tubes, are then passed through the small incisions and the fats suctioned out. Liposuction can be performed on its own or as part of treatment for Dallas tummy tuck patients.
The Day of Surgery
Before going to surgery, Dr. Tran will draw around the areas to be suctioned. You will be given medicine to lessen the anxiety and pain. You will meet your anesthetist before your procedure and he or she will answer any questions you may have about your anesthesia. The surgery usually takes 2 to 3 hours. After surgery, you will be taken to a recovery area where you will be closely monitored.
Surgery may be performed as an outpatient procedure at our certified ambulatory surgery center or at one of several affiliated hospitals with an overnight stay. Whether you stay overnight or not be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home and stay to help you the first few days while at home.
Your Recovery
Some discomfort or pain is normal following surgery. When you are discharged, you will be given prescriptions for pain medication. Your abdomen will feel very tight and you will walk stooped over for the first week and slowly straighten as your skin stretches. You will wear a binder or compression garment for up to three weeks following your surgery.
Results are usually apparent immediately and become more visible after the bruising and swelling have subsided. It is important to live a healthy lifestyle in order to maintain your new appearance. Patients should watch their diet and regularly exercise before and after surgery.
Most patients return to work within a week however, plan on having limited physical activity and restrictions against exercise for up to three weeks. Your follow-up visits will usually start a few days following your surgery for a checkup. During your postoperative visits, Dr.Tran will review activity limitations, use of compression garments, incision care and concerns you may have. Following this visit you will return in approximately 3 weeks, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months and one year.
If you have any concerns during your recovery, or have more questions at a later time, you can always contact Dr. Tran.
How much does liposuction cost?
After your initial consultation, you will be quoted a price that will include Dr. Trans’s fee as well as the operating room and any anesthesia fees. Fees will vary depending on the number or areas to be addressed and the extent of liposuction to be performed.
Call Dr. Tran office for consultation 682-217-1080