Liposuction - Related FAQ's

Q: I think I may need liposuction. No matter how much I exercise, including sit-ups, I can't change the way my tummy makes me look like I'm pregnant. Will the liposuction help?

A: You would need an examination, but it could be that you need an abdominoplasty in addition possibly, to liposuction. The tummy tuck can tighten the muscle that is expanded forward and can remove excess loose skin. Liposuction can only remove the fat that is above the muscle.

Q: Liposuction of the saddlebags was done one week ago but I can’t tell the difference. Should I be concerned?

A: There is probably nothing to be concerned about because it is normal not to see the improvement for many weeks after liposuction because of the swelling. Wear your compression garment and follow up with your surgeon.

Q: I had liposuction of the pubis two weeks ago and it is still swollen. Is this normal?

A: Yes, absolutely. The lower abdomen tends to catch swelling by gravity and allow it to “pool” there. It takes longer for it to clear this area. Below the abdomen is the suprapubic region and the mons pubis, when undergoing liposuction, can swell a great deal and take many weeks to resolve.

Q: I had liposuction of the outer thighs and one week later have very tender bruises. Is this to be expected?

A: Many people bruise, but some things can increase bruising such as taking blood thinners (including but not limited to: alcohol, aspirin, ibuprofen, alleve, Motrin, Advil, fish oil, garlic tablets, ginko, ginseng, and ginger. You should not exercise right after the surgery, and most doctors recommend wearing a compression garment which can minimize bruising. Usually the bruise goes away by three weeks or more.

Q: Is liposuction performed in an office safe?

A: There are many features that affect the safety of liposuction. Liposuction has been an extremely commonly performed surgery and there is a very high safety profile. Aspects that increase risk are long hours of surgery, multiple cosmetic procedures done together, removal of excessive amounts of fat, and the potential of anesthesia complications. Tumescent liposuction has a great safety profile without the need of sedation or general anesthesia. Our practice is accredited as an office based surgical facility by the Joint Commission which is the same agency that accredits hospitals. Offices are only given accreditation status if they follow safety guidelines and perform quality assurance in-office studies.

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