Liposuction is a technique in which very small incisions and thin metal suction tubes (cannulas) are used to remove the soft fatty tissue from underneath the skin. Liposuction is best used to remove disproportionate collections of fat, which create “bulges”. Typical areas that respond well to liposuction are the lower abdominal wall, “love handles”, and the lateral portion of the thighs, the so-called “saddlebags”. Because liposuction removes only the fatty tissue under the skin, the skin over the area to be suctioned typically should be free of stretch marks, wrinkling, and not overly lax. After removal of the fatty tissue, the skin needs to “shrink” to the smaller contour. Some areas where the skin is very lax do not respond very well to liposuction. In Cumberland, Hagerstown, and Morgantown, we offer patients the option of liposuction.
Why Liposuction?
Liposuction is an excellent tool for the “battle of the bulge”. It is not a method of general weight loss, but patients who complain of resistant fatty bulges that just don’t seem to go away no matter how much they try to lose weight may respond well to liposuction.
What is a Liposuction procedure like?
Liposuction can be performed with a local anesthetic (tumescent technique) in which large volumes of local anesthetic are instilled underneath the skin, not only to numb the skin, but to constrict blood vessels so that the fat can be removed with very little bruising, bleeding, or irregularity. Larger volume liposuction may require additional anesthesia (“wet” technique) in which tumescent solution is still used, but because larger volumes are being removed, general anesthesia is required as well. Liposuction can be performed in multiple small sessions, or (within limits) areas can be grouped together in larger volumes.
During the procedure, tiny incisions are made to insert the small cannula tube. The cannula tube loosens the excess fat in order to then suction the fat from the body.
Dr. Robert Carpenter Results
Recovery and Results
After your surgery, Dr. Carpenter will give you compression garments and treatment instructions to ensure proper healing. You may require temporary tubes to help drain fluids, but that will be discussed in your consultation prior to treatment. Patients typically return to work within a few days follow surgery and are back to their normal routine within two weeks. Bruising, swelling, and a little discomfort may occur, but should reside within a few weeks. Dr. Carpenter will give you a list of post-op instructions that you should follow to ensure a quick and successful recovery free of complications. One of the many benefits of liposuction is that it will provide you with long-lasting results. Be sure to follow Dr. Carpenter’s instructions to ensure optimum outcome.
The American Society of Plastic Surgery recommends not more than 4 liters of liposuction be performed on an outpatient basis without an overnight hospital stay for monitoring.
Scheduling Your Consultation in Cumberland Maryland
Dr. Carpenter is a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon as well as a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgery and The American Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery. You can trust that if you struggle with unwanted fat, he is the right surgeon to help you achieve your aesthetic needs. Contact Dr. Carpenter in Cumberland, Maryland today to discuss your options and come up with a solution that is right for you!
