 |
 |
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
|
|
 |
Body Contouring
(Liposuction)
Body
Contouring | Procedure | Recovery
Body contouring, or liposuction, is designed for persons who have specific areas of fat deposits and have tried unsuccessfully to eliminate them through diet, exercise, and/or weight loss. Body contouring removes fat cells beneath the skin in order to shape areas of the body. The surgery can be performed nearly any place on the body, and has proven particularly effective in the abdomen, waist, hips, and thighs. It can also be used on the arms, buttocks and knees. This procedure is suitable for both men and women who are in good general health.
In a consultation, Dr. English will consider the objectives of the client, problem areas and skin elasticity in making a recommendation for body contouring. The results of body contouring are often remarkable, but it is unrealistic to expect perfection. Clients should presume that irregularities and dimpling of the skin present before body contouring are likely to remain following the procedure. While improving the overall shape of the body, the procedure usually does not improve cellulite.
The fat that is removed during body contouring cannot return. This is not to say that one cannot become fatter following surgery. A weight gain following this procedure will result in a more generalized heaviness with fewer predispositions for fat deposition in the treated areas. Body contouring is usually not an appropriate treatment for obesity and is no substitute for good nutrition and regular exercise. Obese clients may be good candidates for body contouring if their goal is simply a reduction in body size and if they are in good general health.
| Before | After | |
 |
 |
Click
on an image to see a larger view and more before and after photos. |
Understanding the procedure
Body contouring is well suited to an outpatient facility such as
English Cosmetic and Plastic Surgery Center. Prior to the procedure, the areas to be treated are carefully marked to guide the surgeon. The surgery is usually carried out under local anesthesia with I.V. sedation. Cannulas are inserted through very small punctures in the skin to suction out excessive fat. Scarring from the procedure is usually imperceptible.
A recent improvement in body contouring technique allows the surgeon to inject moderate amounts of fluid into the targeted areas before fatty deposits are removed. The fluid contains pharmacologic agents designed to limit blood loss and reduce discomfort. This technique also makes the recovery period much easier. A further innovation in body contouring is the use of very fine cannulas. These cannulas allow the surgeon to use a tiny puncture instead of an incision and to approach fat tissue from many sites and directions. The final result is a smoother surgical outcome with a more rapid recovery for the client.
Understanding the recovery
The client may wear two elastic garments home after the surgery. These garments are removed the morning after surgery in order to shower and to wash and dry the garments. After showering, the garments are replaced and worn day and night for the first 48 to 72 hours after surgery. Some clients need to wear the smaller garment for four to seven days after the surgery. Many clients choose to wear it longer because of the comfort it provides.
A large volume of fluid will drain from the small punctures during the first 24 to 48 hours following surgery. In general, the more drainage, the less bruising and swelling. Massaging and/or ultrasound treatments after body contouring may be beneficial to the overall outcome of the procedure.
Certain activities are restricted to aid healing. However, most clients are able to engage in light activity the day after surgery. Normal activity can be resumed within a week or so, but soreness should be expected. Exposure to the sun is avoided during healing because it may darken maturing scars.
Once the excess fat is removed, the body takes several months to tighten the loose skin, provided the client's skin has not lost the ability to do so. This process begins in three to four weeks and progresses slowly. The best result from body contouring is achieved in six to 12 months following the procedure.
Visit our plastic / cosmetic surgery office located in Little Rock, Arkansas (AR).
Before & After Photos | Inquire About Procedure |
Home Recovery Products