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Liposuction in Raleigh, NC

Both men and women have their own definitions of an ideal silhouette. While this desire often differs in specifics, a common concern is pockets of excess fat. Excess body fat can develop due to many reasons at any stage of life. Whether weight gain, aging, genetics, pregnancy, or other reason, fat pockets can be frustrating and difficult to remove on your own.

Why Should I Choose Specialists in Plastic Surgery for Liposuction Procedure?

Specialists in Plastic Surgery in Raleigh, North Carolina, is known throughout the state for offering the widest selection of cosmetic surgeries, including body contouring with liposuction. We are proud to serve the areas of Cary, Wake Forest, Fuquay Varina, Holly Springs, Durham, Fayetteville, and Wilmington.

Our board-certified plastic surgeons are often referred to by other doctors in Raleigh whose patients seek body sculpting. Our skilled surgeons have over 75 years of combined experience in plastic surgery and are committed to providing high-quality results.

Is Liposuction Fat Reduction Right for You?

We do not use liposuction as a weight-loss method. But it can remove unwanted fat pockets that don’t budge with diet and exercise.
 
You may be a candidate for liposuction if you:
  • Are at a healthy body weight
  • Want to reduce fat in specific areas
  • Have adequate skin elasticity
  • Are a non-smoker*
 
*If you smoke, you will be asked to quit for at least four weeks before and after surgery.
 
Our surgeons use two types of liposuction: suction-assisted liposuction (SAL) and ultrasound-assisted liposuction (UAL). Before electing for liposuction, you should be healthy and have realistic expectations for the outcome.
 
A consultation is the most effective way to determine if liposuction is suitable for you. Please prepare to discuss your medical history, current medications, and aesthetic goals.
 
Contact us today to learn more at (919) 785-0505.

Liposuction, sometimes referred to as “lipo,” is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures received by men and women today. This surgical procedure is designed to remove stubborn fat from almost anywhere on the body.

Liposuction is ideal for people who have been unable to achieve a slimmer body shape despite a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Liposuction Patient 1
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After
Liposuction Patient 2
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Before & After Photos

Photo Gallery

Can I Combine Liposuction With Other Procedures?

Liposuction is often combined with tummy tuck surgery to tone the midsection. It can also be added to several surgical treatments, including:

New mothers often customize their treatment plans by adding breast procedures or even labiaplasty to liposuction for a Mommy Makeover.

You can discuss your desired outcome at your consultation, and our surgeon will help you find the correct procedures.

How Should I Prepare for Liposuction?

While liposuction is less invasive than other surgeries, preparing for surgery is essential. You should be as close to your ideal weight as possible, eat a healthy diet, and exercise with a focus on toning the targeted areas.
 
Follow these helpful tips:
  1. Do not smoke! This is crucial for any cosmetic procedure. Smoking increases your risk of complications during and after your surgery.
  2. Stop over-the-counter medicines and supplements that can thin the blood. These include aspirin and NSAIDs, and talk to your doctor about any blood thinners you are taking.
  3. Arrange for someone to drive you to and from your procedure, and follow these tips for an easier recovery:
  • Buy easy-to-prepare foods.
  • Organize your wardrobe so comfortable clothes are easy to find.
  • Arrange for help with children or pets.
  • Put essential items within easy reach of your bed.

How Is Liposuction Performed?

Liposuction fat reduction can be performed with a local or general anesthetic, depending on the area(s) treated. After administering anesthesia, your board-certified plastic surgeon will begin by making a small incision near the targeted area.

A thin tube called a cannula is attached to a vacuum device, then inserted under the skin and into the fatty area. In SAL liposuction, we use gentle back and forth motions to break up the fat, and with UAL, we use sound waves to “liquefy” the fat.

Once broken up or liquified, the fat is suctioned out, and the small incisions are closed with sutures.

Occasionally, temporary drains are placed to collect excess fluid. The treatment area will then be wrapped in an elastic compression garment.

Does Liposuction Leave Scars?

Because incisions made during liposuction are small and often concealed in the natural contours of the body, scarring will be minimal and usually fades over time.

What Are the Benefits of Liposuction

The benefits of liposuction include targeted fat reduction. Liposuction is a highly diverse procedure. Common treatment areas include:

  • Abdomen
  • Arms
  • Back
  • Buttocks
  • Chin
  • Hips
  • Neck
  • Thighs

Liposuction can also remove unwanted fat from other areas. While this surgery does not prevent you from gaining additional weight, this is considered to be a permanent procedure because the fat cells that are removed do not grow back.

Individuals are born with a finite number of fat cells in their body. While these cells can continue to grow and shrink, they cannot multiply.

Often, when weight is gained after liposuction, the weight will be more noticeable in untreated areas since those areas will have a greater number of fat cells.

After Your Liposuction

How Long Is the Liposuction Recovery Process?

Most patients can return home the same day of their surgery. You are likely to experience some discomfort and tenderness in the treatment area as the anesthesia wears off.

Moderate bruising, swelling, and redness are also common for the first several days. If a large area has been treated with liposuction, we can prescribe pain medication to help you manage discomfort.

Swelling may obscure the final results of your liposuction surgery for several weeks. It is important to get plenty of rest and drink plenty of liquids for the first few days, but most patients can resume normal activities within 10 days or less.

Vigorous physical activity, such as intense exercise, may be restricted for several weeks.

What Risks Are Associated With Liposuction?

All surgical procedures, including liposuction, present a degree of risk. These risks will be discussed with you in-depth during the consultation.

Some potential risks associated with liposuction may include:

  • Infection
  • Blood clots
  • Hematoma
  • Seroma
  • Nerve damage
  • Excessive swelling
  • Adverse reaction to anesthesia

To reduce your risks, be sure to follow our surgeon’s instructions carefully.

When Will I See My Results?

You will see the initial results of your liposuction procedure once the swelling starts to subside. The quality of these results will continue to improve over time, and the final outcome will be clear six months following your surgery.

Have More Questions About Liposuction?

Schedule Your Liposuction Consultation in Raleigh, NC

If you’re ready to learn more about liposuction, please call our Raleigh plastic surgery practice to schedule a consultation at 919-785-0505

Get In Touch