Liposuction is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures because it is so versatile. This one-time procedure can remove stubborn fat from almost any area of the body to create a completely customized total body transformation. Unsightly and uncomfortable bulges of fat from the arms, back, abdomen, thighs, and hips can be rid of for good. Some of the most frequently asked questions about liposuction faq are listed below to help you determine if it is the best choice for you.
HOW MUCH WEIGHT WILL I LOSE WITH LIPOSUCTION?
Many potential patients are surprised to learn that the average amount of weight lost from liposuction is only about five pounds, and it is often is less than that. Although liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure, it has the advantage of effective “spot treatment” that no other cosmetic procedure can perform as effectively. Even weight-loss surgeries cannot target specific areas of fat on the body or promise smoother body contours. The best candidates for liposuction are at or near their ideal weight but cannot seem to lose weight in specific areas despite all efforts with diet and exercise.
WILL LIPOSUCTION GET RID OF LOOSE SKIN?
Loose, sagging skin can be the result of weight fluctuations, pregnancy, and/or aging. In some cases, once the underlying fat is removed, the overlying skin will retract. However, for other patients, it can actually make sagging skin appear worse. I assess each patient’s skin to determine the degree of elasticity and its likelihood to contract. For patients with excess or especially loose skin, the best treatment is to remove it with a body lift procedure like an arm lift, a body lift, or a tummy tuck.
WILL LIPOSUCTION REDUCE CELLULITE?
Liposuction will sculpt the body into more aesthetically pleasing contours, but since it may not minimize the appearance of cellulite, patients should not choose liposuction solely for that purpose. Radiofrequency skin tightening or using a needle to cut tethering bands can be effective solutions for cellulite.
ARE LIPOSUCTION RESULTS PERMANENT?
Once fat cells are removed from the body, they are permanently gone. It may take up to six months for the final results to show as your body adjusts to its new shape, but some degree of improvement will be noticeable immediately. If you gain weight after liposuctions, the treated areas will retain a better shape than they would have if you had never gotten the procedure.
HOW MUCH DOES LIPOSUCTION COST?
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of liposuctions on a single area of the body in 2014 was $2,971. This average cost does not include operating room fees, anesthesia fees, or the cost of prescribed pain medication. The cost of liposuction will also vary greatly depending on the number of areas you choose to treat and the geographical location of your surgery. You will receive the most accurate cost estimate at your initial consultation once we have finalized a surgical plan.
Dr. Galanis will help you determine if liposuction is the right procedure to meet your needs. Please schedule your consultation by calling our Beverly Hills office at (310) 858-8930, or fill out our online contact form today for more information.
