What You Need to Know About Liposuction

October 4th, 2016

Liposuction is still the number one requested cosmetic surgery in the United States. Developed back in 1982, this procedure gives new hope to thousands of patients who struggle to exercise and diet away unwanted patches of stubborn fat deposits like “love handles”, “saddle bags” and other problem areas. Although there have been several technical advances in liposuction surgery that impact the speed and efficiency at which we can remove excess fat, it remains a relatively simple body-sculpting procedure in which Dr. King skillfully suctions fat away from the target areas of the body in a systematic, safe manner. In fact, when done well, it even has several significant health benefits that go far beyond a sleeker profile. For the best outcome, however, it is very important for the patient to also understand liposuction, how it works, and what the risks and long-term benefits are.

Is Liposuction Safe?

When performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon It is one of the safest forms of cosmetic surgery. Also, depending on the amount of fat removed, you can be back to work in just a few days. The incisions for liposuction surgery are quite small, so they heal faster than procedures that are more invasive and involve more cutting.

As with any surgical procedure, there are naturally some risks involved, including possible nerve damage, bleeding or infection. However, these risks are significantly reduced when working with a highly-trained cosmetic surgeon who has been board-certified by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons like Dr. King. He has advanced training in minimizing risks and enhancing the benefits you receive from liposuction.

Is Liposuction Permanent?

During liposuction, Dr. King removes fat cells from target areas of the body. The permanence of this procedure depends, in large part, on the patient’s determination to pursue a healthy lifestyle after the surgery. If a person regularly consumes more calories than he or she burns off during exercise and daily activities, the remaining fat cells can still expand and re-create the problem areas that were minimized during the liposuction surgery. If the patient is persistent in living a healthy lifestyle with proper nutrition and regular exercise, the results should last for good.

Who is a Good Candidate for Liposuction?

Liposuction can be a great solution for many people who want to be rid of troublesome fatty areas. The best candidates usually have isolated areas of fat that are disproportionate to adjacent body areas (such as saddle bags, flabby arms, bra line, etc. The key is that the skin covering these areas needs to be in good shape, with good tone and elasticity. Liposuction does not remove any skin, only the fat underneath the skin. Patients with excess loose skin would need cosmetic procedures in addition to liposuction. Dr. King can evaluate your situation and individual needs and come up with a plan for you.

Does Liposuction Have Health Benefits?

Many people are surprised to learn that the answer is a resounding yes. Liposuction seems to significantly lower triglyceride levels in patients. High triglyceride levels are a significant risk factor for heart disease, diabetes and stroke. A medical study that followed the progress of 322 liposuction patients as they recovered after surgery found that liposuction slashed high triglyceride levels in at-risk patients by an average of 43 percent! This reduction is particularly impressive in view of the fact that liposuction turned out to be almost twice as effective as the typically prescribed triglyceride-lowering drugs.

In addition to cutting high triglyceride levels, liposuction also seems to reduce a chronically-high white blood cell count. While white blood cells are great for fending off periodic infections and illnesses, unnecessarily high levels that stay up when you aren’t sick can contribute to health-damaging chronic inflammation. This type of inflammation can be another risk factor leading to obesity, hypertension, heart disease, diabetes and a host of other health problems. Again, liposuction appears to reduce this risk.

The takeaway for patients who are good candidates for liposuction is that this surgery, which was once strictly categorized as a cosmetic procedure, can actually contribute to a positive overall health outcome for patients with high levels of triglycerides and white blood cells. In combination with a healthy diet and regular exercise, liposuction could significantly reduce at risk patients’ risk of heart disease, diabetes, stroke and other inflammatory conditions—all while sculpting a slimmer you.

If you have stubborn areas of fat on your hips, thighs, buttocks, calves, ankles, back, arms, neck or breasts (particularly for men) that won’t disappear with consistent nutrition and exercise, schedule an appointment with Dr. King. He is board-certified by the American Society of Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeons and one of the most highly-respected in the upper Midwest. He can guide you toward the healthy body you desire.