Liposuction
In 2010 there were 203,100 cases of liposuction performed in the US according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Surgical removal of unwanted fat goes by many names such as liposuction, suction assisted lipectomy, lipo, and lipoplasty just to name a few. The intent of liposuction is the removal of fat in areas unresponsive to diet and exercise. Problem areas may affect how clothing fits and how one feels about ones appearance.
How is Liposuction Performed? Where Does Dr. Proffitt Perform Surgery?
Dr. Proffitt uses two techniques to perform liposuction in his Mobile office. He was the first doctor on the Gulf Coast to utilize ultrasonic liposuction which uses ultrasonic vibrations to break up fat cells making it easier to suction out the unwanted fat. Dr. Proffitt also uses the tumescent technique which involves instilling a saline solution mixed with both a local anesthetic and adrenaline in the area to be suctioned. Adrenaline constricts blood vessels and reduces bruising while local anesthetic helps reduce postoperative pain. The use of smaller cannulas and other instruments yields a smoother appearance and fewer irregularities than was initially seen when liposuction was first developed. Dr. Proffitt does not offer laser liposuction. This method of liposuction directly transfers heat and may cause burns and unsightly scarring.
Dr. Proffitt performs most liposuction cases involving the abdomen, thighs, hips, arms and back under general anesthesia at an outpatient facility. The areas to be liposuctioned are meticulously marked before surgery. The incisions are very small and sutures are absorbed. Immediately after your procedure, Dr. Proffitt will place a compression garment (a girdle) on you to help keep swelling at a minimum. The girdle must be worn for 6 weeks. Dr. Proffitt performs liposuction under general anesthesia with the supervision of a board certified anesthesiologist. Small areas such as neck, knees, and touchups are done under local in the office.
Before and After Liposuction in Mobile, AL
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How Long Will Recovery Take?
Your first postoperative appointment will be approximately 3 to 4 days after your surgery. At that time Dr. Proffitt will examine you and release you back to normal activities. You may also remove the compression garment to shower but it should be worn all other times for the next 6 weeks. You may feel bruised and sore for several weeks. Strenuous activity should wait for 3 weeks after surgery.
What are the Risks?
- You may have some contour irregularity. Although infrequent it is easily corrected under local in the office.
- Infections from liposuction procedures are very rare. Dr. Proffitt has never encountered an infection from a liposuction he has performed in 20 years of practice.
- Infrequently excessive bruising may occur .
What Results Should I Expect?
Even though you may see immediate results the final contour may take 3 to 6 months.
To learn more about liposuction in Mobile, Alabama, please contact the office of Dr. Randy Proffitt, board-certified plastic surgeon. Call our plastic surgery practice at 251-344-0322 or send us an email to learn more about liposuction.