Liposuction, or lipoplasty, is a procedure that removes excess fat from areas such as the abdomen, back, thighs or neck using a specialized suction device. The procedure is designed to subtly improve trouble areas, that don’t respond well to diet and exercise. Oftentimes, liposuction may be done in conjunction with other cosmetic surgeries. There are multiple reasons people chose to undergo liposuction, including:
To enhance their appearance and self-confidence.
To target fat reduction from specific "trouble zones".
To better match their outward appearance with how they feel physically or emotionally.
Surgical Candidates:
Good physical and mental health.
Maintain realistic goals for surgical results.
Procedure:
Liposuction is usually performed under anesthesia within a hospital or surgery center. "Touch-up" liposuction may be done as an in office procedure.
Patients may spend one night within the hospital or overnight center, or may even go home the day of surgery.
The procedure involves making small incisions over the area of concern, inserting a narrow suction tube into the fat layer, and then carefully removing the fat through a suction tube. Sutures or skin adhesives are used to close the incisions.
After Surgery:
Patients will have special garments to wear following surgery, which support the surgical site and help to minimize swelling.
Oral pain medications are prescribed to control discomfort following surgery.
The following medications are also prescribed to assist in your recovery:
Antibiotics, ibuprofen and stool softener.
The doctor or her assistant will visit with the patient one to two days after surgery.
It is imperative to avoid any strenuous activity for 4-6 weeks, but patients may resume non-strenuous work within a week to 10 days.
Dr. Burgess will follow your healing process closely throughout the weeks and months following surgery.
Vaser® Lipo
Vaser® Liposelection is an ultrasonic liposuction technique. This proven technology is a gentle alternative to traditional liposuction and may have quicker recovery times that can get you back to your regular routine. This technique may be provided as an in-office procedure for good candidates with minimal to moderate fat removal. This technique can also be used in a hospital like setting for moderate to major fat removal or in conjuction with other major cosmetic surgeries.
Board certified plastic surgeon Dr. Elisa A. Burgess specializes in Lake Oswego face lift as well as eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty), liposuction, tummy tuck and breast augmentation. She serves the entire northwest Portland / Vancouver metro area and beyond.
