No matter how hard you exercise or how many healthy diets you try, you may struggle to reach your ideal body goals. If those methods aren’t making the impact for which you’re striving, liposuction can help transform your body further.
Also known as a lipectomy, liposuction is one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures. It isn’t a substitute for weight loss, but can complement efforts in healthy dieting and exercise. The procedure removes fat deposits and reshapes areas of the body, including:
- Abdomen
- Buttocks
- Hips
- Thighs
- Knees
- Calves
- Ankles
- Upper arms
- Above the breasts
- Neck and chin
- Facial cheeks
The Penn Experience
What to expect during liposuction
Prior to your procedure, you’ll discuss your goals in detail with your surgeon. Liposuction often goes hand-in-hand with other cosmetic procedures, and your surgeon will provide you with details to help you achieve your ideal self.
During a liposuction procedure, your surgeon makes a small incision near the fat removal area. Next, the surgeon uses a small, hollow tube (called a cannula) attached to a suction machine to remove excess fat and skin, if necessary. We utilize a standard tumescent liposuction technique that decreases bleeding and bruising after surgery.
Following surgery, your care team will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself leading up to and after surgery. Those instructions will likely involve a body stocking to help control bleeding and swelling. Most people return to work between three days and two weeks after treatment, depending on the extent of the surgery.
Liposuction cost
The cost of liposuction varies based on your specific treatment goals and other services you may also undergo. Your surgeon will discuss the cost of your liposuction with you during your consultation.
Liposuction risks
Liposuction surgery in general, like any surgery, comes with risks, such as infection and scarring. However, you can help prevent complications by following your pre- and post-surgery instructions.
Risks associated with liposuction surgery depend on the extent of the procedure and where you’re having it. Other risks include skin rippling in the treated area and pigment changes after sun exposure. Keep an open dialogue about any concerns you have throughout the recovery process. Your care team puts your safety above all else, and is always available for you.