Questions about Liposuction Surgery

Plastic Surgery in Charleston, SC

What is Liposuction?

Liposuction is a surgical procedure that removes fat from targeted deposits. The result is a smoother body contour.

Is Liposuction an alternative to diet or exercise?

No. Liposuction is a complement to diet and exercise. While diet and exercise improve your overall body tone and contour, liposuction targets specific fat deposits that resist slimming. A balanced diet is considered essential to getting the best possible results from body contouring procedures like liposuction. Liposuction can also provide a good beginning to a diet and exercise program.

Am I a good candidate for Liposuction?

If you are at or near your ideal weight and in generally good health but have specific areas of fat that you would like to remove, then liposuction is a good procedure for you. You should also look at our Am I a Good Candidate for Cosmetic Surgery? page to learn more.

What areas does Liposuction treat?

Liposuction can be used on virtually any stubborn fat deposit. This includes fat deposits in the:

Depending on the area to be treated and the results you desire, SmartLipo™ may be recommended to get better results.

What is the Liposuction procedure like?

In tumescent liposuction, the area to be treated is first injected with a solution that numbs the area and loosens the fat. This solution means you will experience little discomfort and can be awake during the procedure. A mild oral or intravenous sedative can be used to help you relax. The length of the procedure varies depending on the size of the area being treated.

What is recovery from Liposuction like?

You will leave Port City Plastic Surgery wearing a compression garment help to speed the healing process and minimize discomfort and swelling. You may wear this garment for up to six weeks after the operation to help ensure you get the best possible results. Postoperative discomfort is mild to moderate and can be controlled with prescription medication. Some people with smaller treatment areas may return to work in a couple days, others may take longer. You can often return to most normal activities as soon as you want, but should count on avoiding strenuous exercise for up to six weeks.

What are the risks of Liposuction?

All surgery carries the possibility of risks, please see our page on surgical risks to learn more.

Why should I choose Port City Plastic Surgery for my Liposuction procedure?

Charleston, South Carolina plastic surgeon Dr. Brian Widenhouse has been in practice since 1998. He has extensive experience with body contouring procedures, including liposuction and tummy tucks, breast surgery, and facial cosmetic surgery. Dr. Widenhouse founded Port City Plastic Surgery to be able to give every patient the time and personalized care he or she deserves, so you know that from first contact to last follow-up you will receive the highest level of attentiveness from Dr. Widenhouse and his staff.

To learn more about liposuction, Dr. Widenhouse, or Port City Plastic Surgery, please call or email us today.