Liposuction

Despite even the best attempts at diet and exercise, you may still have pockets of unwanted fat that simply will not improve. These are often genetically predetermined areas of fat that are resistant to diet and exercise. Liposuction is a procedure which can remove unwanted fat and sculpt areas of the body for a slimmer, more toned appearance. The procedure may be performed on its own or it may be combined with other techniques to help sculpt and shape the final result.

Liposuction can produce dramatic results. However, it is not a substitute for proper diet and exercise. Overall health and skin tone are factors which will impact the end result. Liposuction may be performed on many areas of the body and face including the upper arms, abdomen, buttocks, hips, thighs, knees, calves, ankles, neck, chin and cheeks.

Surgical Procedure
Michael Diaz, MD may perform the liposuction procedure in the hospital or, if a small amount of fat is being removed, the procedure may be performed in the office. Local anesthesia and sedation are commonly used, though general anesthesia is also an option. Liposuction is often performed on an outpatient basis, though an overnight stay may be required if an extensive amount of fat is being removed. During the procedure, the fatty areas are injected with an anesthetic solution to minimize bleeding and maximize comfort. Next, small, inconspicuous incisions are made through which a long, slender tube known as a cannula is inserted. The cannula is then used to disrupt the fat cells and suction them out. Once the procedure is complete, you will be placed in a compression garment.

Post Surgery
Most patients are up and about immediately after returning home. Michael Diaz, MD will prescribe medication to help alleviate any discomfort that you experience. Non-strenuous work can typically be resumed within three to four days, though it will take six weeks before full activity can be resumed. Heavy lifting or pushing should be avoided for two to three weeks, and the compression garment should be worn for four weeks. Post-operative lymphatic massages are recommended for all patients in order to improve the final skin texture and more quickly resolve swelling. The swelling may take as long as six weeks to fully subside.