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Whitlock Cosmetic Center
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Body Contouring

Liposuction

Some areas do not respond to diet or exercise. Liposuction addresses them directly.

Anesthesia

General or local, outpatient

Procedure time

About 1–3 hours

Back to desk work

Often within a week

Best for

Contouring, not weight loss

Overview

Most patients seeking liposuction are not seeking to lose weight, rather they are seeking to address areas that have not responded the way the rest of their body has. Inner thighs, flanks, under the chin, upper arms, these areas often persist regardless of weight or fitness level.

Liposuction removes localized fat deposits and contours the area. It is not weight loss surgery but contouring surgery. It works best in patients who are close to a stable weight.

Is it right for you?

You may be a good candidate if the following describe you:

  • You have stubborn fat in certain areas despite a healthy lifestyle.
  • You are close to a stable weight and have good skin elasticity.
  • You want to improve contour rather than lose a significant amount of weight.
  • You are in good general health and do not smoke.

How the procedure works

Fat is removed through small incisions and the area is then contoured to create smooth results. Minimally invasive techniques are used to help limit swelling and downtime.

Liposuction is often performed in conjunction with other procedures such as a tummy tuck or mommy makeover to contour certain areas in one procedure.

Recovery

First few daysA compression garment is worn. Bruising and swelling are expected.
1 weekMost patients can return to desk work within a week.
4–6 weeksSwelling will continue to subside and contour will continue to improve.
Common questions

Liposuction questions

Answers to questions patients ask most about this procedure.
Will the fat come back?
The removed fat cells do not return. However, the remaining fat cells can increase in size with weight gain. Maintaining a stable weight will help maintain results.
Is liposuction a weight-loss procedure?
No. This is a contouring procedure and is best performed in patients who are close to a stable weight.
Does liposuction tighten skin?
Liposuction removes fat but does not significantly tighten loose skin. If skin laxity is a problem, a skin-tightening or excision procedure may be recommended.

Recovery guide

What to expect, week by week

Healing timelines vary. Use this as a general reference and follow your specific post-operative instructions from Dr. Whitlock.

What to Expect

  • Rest at home, light drainage possible
  • Prescription pain management in effect

Your Routine

  • Ice packs wrapped in cloth, 20 minutes on and 20 off
  • Sleep on your back, raised about 30°

Talk it through before you decide.

Cost, scars, time off, photos, and whether or not the results will be worth it are all part of the same conversation. These trade-offs will be discussed during the consultation.