Liposuction has been used for body shaping for decades, and it has evolved with the advances in medical technology. Fat removal can help patients feel better about their bodies and boost their confidence. Lipo is consistently one of the most common cosmetic surgeries requested by men and women, including various forms like tumescent and laser-assisted. Let’s discuss what liposuction can and cannot accomplish, as well as the different forms available at Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C.

Liposuction is a form of plastic surgery that is used to remove fat that is difficult or impossible to lose through diet or exercise. Patients requesting liposuction may have fat under their chin or around their midsection that refuses to melt away, even though they are within a healthy weight for their height. Lipo suctions out the unwanted fat deposits, and the fat cells are permanently removed.

Liposuction can reshape the body and prevent fat from returning to the targeted area. However, it does not remove excess or loose skin – this requires a separate procedure – and it does not prevent weight gain in other areas. To maintain results, lipo patients need to maintain a healthy diet and active lifestyle. Liposuction also does not produce immediate results. Patients should expect swelling while the area heals with results appearing in the months after the procedure.

Tumescent Liposuction

Tumescent liposuction is the most common technique used when removing larger fat deposits. This is considered the modern standard and many plastic surgeons prefer this method as it allows better precision and effectiveness when performing body sculpting. The technique uses injections of saline and local anesthetic into the area to reduce bleeding and facilitate liquifying the fat before it is suctioned out with a small cannula.

Laser-Assisted Lipo

Laser-assisted liposuction is similar to tumescent in basic technique. Small incisions are used to place cannulas into the targeted area to suction out the unwanted fat deposits. The main difference is this lipo method utilizes laser energy to help liquefy the fat before it is suctioned away. The heat from laser-assisted lipo can stimulate collagen production, which may help the skin tighten as the area heals.

Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C. offers both tumescent and laser-assisted liposuction as each patient has different aesthetic goals. Dr. Jones evaluates each patient based on their concerns, goals, lifestyle, medical history, and physical attributes. Tumescent liposuction may be better for someone who wants a significant amount of fat removed from their abdomen or thighs. Smaller areas like the chin, neck, or arms may benefit from laser-assisted that can also slightly tighten the skin. Both require similar recovery and healing times.

If you are interested in learning more about liposuction, come visit us at Atlanta Plastic Surgery Specialists, P.C. Contact our clinic in Atlanta, GA, to schedule a personal consultation with Dr. Jones to discuss the various liposuction methods and which may be right for you.