At one time or another, all of us have probably looked at our body and wished we could get rid of fat in specific areas. But let’s be honest. Though we may have tried to follow a healthy lifestyle, eating right and exercising regularly, certain pockets of unwanted fat still remain. These areas of stubborn fat are often more noticeable in the hips, buttocks, abdomen, and thighs. Liposuction can effectively target these problem areas, removing the fat and improving body contours.
Why does the body store fat in certain areas?
Some of the blame can be placed on genetics. Our genes play a role in body fat distribution, particularly abdominal visceral fat. Genetic factors determine where our body stores fat. Genetics also plays a role in metabolism, determining how our body uses the calories we consume.
Hormones often determine fat distribution in the body. For younger women, estrogen causes more fat to be stored in the buttocks, thighs, and breasts. However after menopause, when estrogen levels drop, women are more likely to store fat around the abdomen. For men, testosterone makes it more likely their fat will be stored in the abdominal area or as “love handles”.
People who have chronic stress tend to have higher levels of cortisol. This stress hormone makes them more likely to retain fat around the abdomen.
How does liposuction work?
Liposuction removes fat in targeted areas. Small incisions are made and a thin tube, called a cannula, is inserted under the skin. Fat and fluids are suctioned from the area via a vacuum. The cannula can be manipulated to help break up the fat. Depending on the treatment plan, the patient may receive local anesthesia or sedation anesthesia for the procedure.
Liposuction is not a weight loss procedure. Patients should be at a stable weight and as close to their realistic baseline weight as possible.
What is recovery like?
Recovery takes place over a 4-week period, during which the patient may need to wear compression garments to help minimize swelling and bruising. Massage during the recovery phase is recommended.
Patients will see results within weeks. Results include a more contoured appearance with noticeable loss of inches in the targeted areas.
Next Steps
If you have been frustrated by the inability to eliminate stubborn fat pockets that haven’t responded to diet and exercise, contact our office to schedule a liposuction consultation with our Board Certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Keusch or Dr. Nichols.