Liposuction, also called lipoplasty, is a surgical procedure that removes deposits of excess fat from specific areas of the body, face or neck. Liposuction can be used to slim the hips and thighs, flatten the abdomen, shape the calves and ankles or eliminate a double chin.

If you're ready to discuss your liposuction options, now is a great time to schedule a consultation with Dr. Wang at our plastic surgery offices, serving Southern California including Pasadena, Arcadia and Riverside. You can request a consultation online or call Wang Plastic Surgery at (888) 360-6688 today to schedule your appointment.

Liposuction in the Pasadena area is best for men and women of normal weight with firm, elastic skin, but are troubled by fat deposits that don't respond to diet or exercise. Age is not a consideration; however, because of diminished skin elasticity, older patients may not experience the same results as younger patients with tighter skin.

There are several variations of liposuction that can achieve more precise results with quicker recovery times. They include fluid injection, ultrasound-assisted lipoplasty (UAL), the tumescent technique and the super-wet technique. In your initial consultation, Dr. Wang will help you to assess which technique is best for you, based on the location of your fat deposits and the condition of your skin. The dedication to personal service sets Dr. Wang and his staff apart. See what former patients have to say about their experience with the caring staff at Wang Plastic Surgery when you read what patients are saying.

What are the common benefits of liposuction?

Liposuction results in a tighter, more sculpted appearance in areas with large deposits of fat that have not responded to diet and exercise.

How is liposuction performed?

Liposuction can be performed either under local, regional or general anesthesia, depending on the location of the fat deposits and the extent of the procedure. The procedure generally involves inserting a narrow tube (cannula) into an incision beneath the surface of the skin to break up the fat cells and suction them out. In the fluid injection method, a medicated solution is injected into the fatty areas prior to suctioning to act as an anesthetic before and after surgery, make the fat easier to remove and reduce blood loss and bruising. Dr. Wang will determine the type and amount of fluid according to your individual needs. The tumescent technique involves injecting large volumes of fluid when the patient is under local anesthesia, while the super-wet technique uses lesser amounts (usually the same as the amount of fat to be removed) with general anesthesia or IV sedation. During the ultrasound-assisted technique a special cannula that produces ultrasonic energy is used to liquefy the fat by exploding the cell walls prior to suctioning. UAL is particularly effective in fibrous areas of the body like the upper back or the enlarged male breasts.

How long does liposuction take?

The time needed to perform liposuction varies considerably, depending on the size of the area to be treated, the amount of fat to be removed and the technique and anesthesia to be used.

What can I expect after liposuction?

You are likely to experience some pain, burning, swelling, stiffness, bleeding and temporary numbness after the procedure. Dr. Wang can prescribe medication to relieve the pain, as well as an antibiotic to prevent infection. There will also probably be some fluid drainage from the incisions. Dr. Wang may insert a small drainage tube beneath the skin for a few days to prevent fluid build-up. Your stitches will dissolve or be removed within the first week to 10 days. You may also be fitted with a snug elastic garment to wear over the treated area for a few weeks. Overall, you'll start feeling better in a week or two. Read Dr. Wang's advice about recovery from surgery.

What is the recovery period like?

To reduce swelling and prevent blood clots, Dr. Wang may advise you to begin moving about as soon as possible. Strenuous activity should be avoided for about a month so that your body has time to heal. Some bruising and swelling may still remain for six months or more, but most will usually subside within three weeks. Read Dr. Wang's advice about recovery from surgery.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

You should be able to return to work within a few days after surgery, but you should avoid strenuous activity.

The information about Liposuction is provided for Riverside and Pasadena area residents courtesy of Dr. Stewart Wang, a board certified plastic surgeon.