Liposuction

Liposuction is a minimally invasive cosmetic procedure used to remove localized areas of fat from the body. A small narrow tube called a cannula is used to perform this procedure. The fat from the targeted area is suctioned through this cannula to help patients achieve a slimmer figure. Dr. Cooper performs all liposuction cases with a tumescent technique. Prior to performing the actual liposuction, a tumescent solution is instilled into the area to be treated. The tumescent solution contains a diluted local anesthetic and a potent vasoconstrictor to help prevent bleeding and bruising.

Candidates for Liposuction
The ideal candidate for liposuction is someone who is healthy but has one or more problem areas with unresponsive fatty deposits. Liposuction cannot be used as a means for major weight loss. It is reserved for those stubborn areas that patients are left with after weight loss. Liposuction can be used to treat localized fat deposits in the neck, arms, abdomen, thighs, back, hips, buttocks and legs.

This procedure may be performed alone or can be combined with other cosmetic procedures such as a facelift, breast reduction or tummy tuck.

The Procedure
Liposuction is an outpatient procedure performed at the North Seattle Surgery Center. Depending on the area being treated, either local or general anesthesia is used. Tiny incisions are made and the liposuction cannula is inserted through these incisions to remove unwanted fatty deposits.

Recovery and Results
After the liposuction procedure, patients may experience mild swelling, bruising and discomfort in the treated area. Compression garments or elastic bandages are used to help reduce these symptoms while the area heals. Patients may return to work and other regular activities after a few days. Exercise and other strenuous activities should be avoided for a several weeks.

The results of the liposuction procedure may not be visible until after swelling and bruising subside. This may take several months, and results will appear gradually throughout this time. The results of liposuction can be permanent. If substantial weight is gained after this procedure, the results may become less noticeable.

Risks
Although complications are uncommon, they include infection, scarring, hematoma, contour irregularities and over versus under-correction. Dr. Cooper will review all the risks and benefits with you prior to your procedure and discuss the ways these risks can be minimized.