WALNUT CREEKThe human body can accumulate fat in a variety of areas. From common spots like the abdomen to challenging areas like under the chin, this accumulated fat often resists your efforts to remove it. Liposuction targets stubborn fat to sculpt and shape your figure. In the hands of a skilled surgeon, it is a safe, effective procedure.
What is Liposuction?
Liposuction or lipo is a tool for addressing pockets of stubborn fat. It can treat small areas such as submental (under the chin) fat or large areas like the abdomen and thighs. It uses a few small incisions that allow a tool called a cannula to enter and break up the fat cells. Liposuction is often used as part of another procedure, like a tummy tuck or neck lift, but also provides dramatic results alone.
How Does Liposuction Work?
Dr. Aycock performs tumescent liposuction, a safer technique that reduces recovery time. He will inject the area with a combination of sterile saline, local anesthetic, and small amounts of adrenaline. This fluid helps separate the fat layers, reduces bleeding and swelling, and helps you recover more quickly. Dr. Aycock makes a few small incisions and inserts the cannula, which he uses to break up and suction out fat.
How Safe is Liposuction?
All surgical procedures will involve some degree of risk. Liposuction is very safe when performed by a skilled, experienced surgeon. As with any procedure, doing your research will help you find a surgeon who puts your mind at ease. Dr. Aycock and his team have extensive experience performing liposuction in many different areas of the body, alone and during other procedures. Your safety is always our priority. Dr. Aycock will explain the risks and benefits of lipo in detail during your consultation.
What is Recovery Like After Liposuction?
Depending on the area and how much fat you have removed, you may have drains after surgery to remove any excess fluid. You may also have a compression garment to help with smoothing and shaping the area. You can expect some soreness and swelling in the treated area that improves during the first week. Many people can return to low-activity jobs within a few days. Dr. Aycock will assess your recovery during your follow-up appointments and tell you when you can resume your usual exercise routine. Swelling will gradually evolve over a few months.
Am I a Good Candidate for Liposuction?
Liposuction is a safe, effective procedure for most healthy adults. Good candidates want to shape and sculpt targeted areas to achieve a more toned figure. Candidates should understand that lipo is not a weight loss method and will not help you lose weight. Ideal candidates lead a healthy lifestyle but have areas of fat that resist their efforts.
Take the Next Step
To schedule your consultation, please fill out the form on this page or call Dr. Aycock’s office at (925) 937-8377 (Walnut Creek) or (415) 903-8463 (Greenbrae).
