Liposuction

Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure used to remove localized areas of fat from the body through tiny, imperceptible incisions.  The fat from the targeted area is suctioned from the body through a small thin tube called a cannula. This surgical technique is a method of body contouring which creates a slimmer, more defined appearance for the body, and helps patients achieve a better balanced appearance. Dr. Hutchinson offers liposuction at her plastic surgery practice in on Manhattan’s Upper East Side in New York City.

New liposuction technology has allowed for a number of different techniques that improve the accuracy and reduce the pain associated with this procedure. Today, liposuction is usually performed via the tumescent technique, or with the assistance of power, laser, or water-jet. These new technologies have transformed liposuction into a much safer and less invasive procedure.

Candidates for Liposuction

The ideal candidate for liposuction is someone who is in good overall health and maintains a healthy life , but has one or more problem areas with fat deposits that are unresponsive to diet and exercise. It is also important for patients to have realistic expectations, and remember that liposuction cannot be used as a means for weight loss. It is instead used to remove localized areas of stubborn fat after the patient has attempted other healthy and natural weight loss methods.

Liposuction can be used to treat localized fat deposits within the:

This procedure may be performed alone, or can be combined with other cosmetic procedures, such as breast augmentation, breast reduction, or tummy tuck, or cosmetic procedures on the face such as eyelid lift or facelift. Dr. Hutchinson will discuss all procedures you are interested in, and which may be safely performed in her surgical facility or at one of the hospitals in New York City where she routinely operates.

Liposuction Procedure

There are several different techniques currently available for patients seeking liposuction treatment. New technologies have improved the accuracy of this procedure for both patient and doctor, and allow patients to achieve their desired results through a much less invasive procedure. Liposuction is performed through a tumescent technique, and may use Power Assisted Liposuction (PAL) for large volume cases or laser assisted liposuction for additional skin tightening.

Liposuction is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia. Dr. Hutchinson will make several tiny incisions and inject a local anesthetic into the area to help expand and firm the fat, making it easier to remove. The cannula is then inserted through the incisions to suction out the fat. No stitches are needed after liposuction since the incisions are small enough to heal on their own.

In laser-assisted tumescent liposuction, a laser is used to liquefy the targeted fat before it is removed, allowing for an easier and less painful removal. The laser may also be used to tighten skin in the treated area after fat is removed.

Recovery and Results from Liposuction

After the liposuction procedure, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising and discomfort in the treated area. Compression garments or elastic bandages may be used to help reduce these symptoms while the area heals. Patients can return to work and other regular activities as soon as they feel comfortable, which is usually after a few days. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for a few weeks.

Dr. Hutchinson will give you special instructions on how to care for your treated area and reduce any complications after the procedure. The results of the liposuction procedure may not be visible until after swelling and bruising subside, and the skin shrinks back down to accommodate the smaller volume. This may take several months, and results will appear gradually throughout this time.

The results of liposuction can be permanent, as long as patients maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. If substantial weight is gained after this procedure, the results may be altered.

Risks of Liposuction

Although liposuction is considered safe, there are certain risks associated with any type of procedure. Some of these risks may include infection, scarring, allergic reactions, hematoma or unsatisfactory results. Liposuction is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic procedures and serious complications are extremely rare.

You can minimize potential risks by choosing an experienced doctor like Dr. Hutchinson and by following her instructions before and after your procedure. Dr Hutchinson will develop an individualized surgical plan based on your anatomy and desires, and perform your surgery in her office in Manhattan or one of the New York City hospitals in which she has privileges.

To read more about Liposuction, click here.

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson MD, serves Manhattan and the surrounding areas of New York City.

Dr. Olivia Hutchinson MD | 121A East 83rd Street | New York, NY 10028 | Tel. 212.452.1400

www.droliviahutchinson.com