Body Contouring with Liposuction: Sculpt the Shape You’ve Always Wanted

Body contouring has become popular for achieving a slimmer, more defined physique.  Liposuction is one of the most well-known and effective options available because it targets stubborn fat that won’t go away with diet and exercise. 

If stubborn fat is holding you back from achieving your ideal shape, liposuction may be your solution. Board-certified plastic surgeon Vivian Hsu, MD, at Best Impression Cosmetic Surgery in Blue Bell, Pennsylvania, can answer your questions and ensure you have the most up-to-date information.  

What is liposuction?

Liposuction reshapes your body because the procedure removes stubborn fat deposits that typically resist diet and exercise. During this cosmetic procedure, Dr. Hsu makes a small incision through which she inserts a thin instrument called a cannula to loosen and suction away unwanted fat. 

You can target trouble spots, such as your abdomen, thighs, arms, chin, or flanks, to achieve the contours you've been working toward. Liposuction isn't a method of weight loss, but it offers a way to refine your body's shape after you've already established healthy habits.

Liposuction can create a more proportionate and balanced look by removing the fat. The procedure is most promising for individuals who are close to their target weight but have localized fat deposits that they want to eliminate.

Who is a good candidate for liposuction?

Liposuction is not suitable for everyone. The best candidates for the procedure are individuals in good overall health and with realistic expectations about the outcome. Liposuction is most effective when you have specific fat pockets that persist despite your healthy habits. 

You should be close to your ideal weight and only using liposuction as a contouring tool to enhance your natural shape.

Your skin's elasticity is also important. If you have firm, resilient skin, it will tighten nicely around your new contours after fat removal. Without that elasticity, you might experience a looseness that can affect your results. 

What to expect from liposuction

Dr. Hsu usually performs liposuction under general anesthesia. Sometimes, sedation and local anesthesia can be used for smaller, more focal areas. The procedure takes one to two hours, depending on the number of areas being treated.

Dr. Hsu will make small incisions in inconspicuous areas to minimize visible scarring and insert a cannula through that incision, gently removing the unwanted fat. There are a couple different types of liposuction, and the method used is determined by the amount of fat there is and the area of your body that you are having treated.

Patients go home the day of their procedure, though they will need someone to drive them. The procedure is relatively straightforward; however, following postoperative instructions closely is critical to ensure a smooth recovery.

What to know about recovery

The recovery after liposuction can vary slightly for each individual. Most people experience mild discomfort, swelling, and bruising in the treated areas, which usually start to subside within a few days to a couple of weeks. 

Compression garments help in two ways: reducing swelling and supporting the healing process. Be sure to follow Dr. Hsu’s clear instructions about when you may return to work and exercise.

Have patience during the healing process. Though the immediate results are visible soon after the procedure, the final contouring effects will take several months to fully reveal themselves as the body continues to heal. 

Liposuction offers long-lasting results, provided you maintain a healthy lifestyle. Significant weight gain can affect the final results. Incorporating regular exercise and a balanced diet into your lifestyle is essential.

The benefits of liposuction for body contouring

Liposuction sculpts areas of your body that stubbornly resist diet and exercise. It targets specific fat pockets, such as the abdomen, hips/flanks, or thighs, to create a more contoured appearance and helps highlight your natural curves, giving you a more youthful and defined shape.

Many people enjoy a surge of confidence after undergoing liposuction. Feeling better about your body can have a huge impact on your overall sense of well-being. 

Is liposuction right for you?

Liposuction is an excellent option for individuals seeking to sculpt and refine their body shape. Call or schedule an appointment online today to enjoy a more defined, flattering shape that complements your overall appearance.