Liposuction (also called fat suctioning, suction lipectomy or liposculpturing) is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed in North America. Although the technique is directed towards the removal of unwanted fat deposits located in specific areas of the body, with the introduction of ultrasonic liposuction, presently offered by Dr. James Lacey more generalized body fat removal can be performed. To learn more about liposuction, contact Dr. James Lacey Ottawa, Ontario, office today.
Candidates for Liposuction
Genetically predetermined regions of excessive or abnormal body fat deposition include areas of the abdomen, thighs, buttocks, calves, knees, ankles, chin area, jowls, neck and upper arms (Diagram A). The chest, hips (love handles) and back areas are the more common regions for treatment in the male patients. Importantly, liposuction should not be used as a substitute for weight reduction programs, exercise or a proper diet but only as a method for removing unwanted fat deposits when other non surgical forms of intervention have failed.
The best candidates are those of normal to slightly above normal weight who present with pockets of excess fat in particular areas of their body not responding to a well orchestrated diet and/or exercise program.
What’s Involved
Liposuction involves the use of different sized cannulae which are moved back and forth within the subcutaneous tissue (deep to the skin surface) and within the fat pocket areas (Diagram B). The cannulae, which are hooked up to a vacuum system, results in the removal of fat tissue (a Swiss cheese pattern) leaving vessels and nerves intact.
The procedure itself is routinely performed on an outpatient basis utilizing either a local or general anesthesia depending upon specific patient requests and the volume of fat one expects to remove.
The tumescent technique which is the most common technique performed by Dr. James Lacey involves infiltrating saline fluid into the area to be treated, prior to performing the actual liposuction procedure itself. Infusion of this fluid not only assists in the ease of fat removal but also aids in maintaining a level of post operative comfort for the patient. This technique also enables Dr. James Lacey to remove larger volumes of fat utilizing local anesthesia alone. Ultrasonic technology is also available from Dr. James Lacey which allows for fat to be removed from dense areas of lipodystrophy which includes the love handles and male breast tissue as well as the upper back. This technology is slightly more costly to perform due to the length of the procedure and the consumables used . The specific indications for this form of liposuction will be reviewed during your consultation.
Postoperative recovery is relatively short (usually only a few days). The patient is usually required to wear a compression garment so that the skin has a chance to shrink in a controlled fashion, thus limiting the potential for residual indentations or irregularities (Diagram C).
Liposuction performed by a qualified plastic surgeon is considered a safe procedure. As with all surgery, however, the risks, limitations and expectations will be thoroughly reviewed with Dr. James Lacey prior to proceeding with operative intervention.
Other Options
If you wish to avoid surgery, we also offer VelaShape® technology, which can effectively reduce the appearance and volume of cellulite using infrared light and radio frequency. In addition to this, the NEW THERMAGE TIPS can be very effective in reducing the circumference and cellulite appearance in areas of concern.
Contact Us
To learn more about the different body sculpting treatments we provide, including costs, contact us today.
