Liposuction, also referred to as “lipo”, slims and contours areas of the body by removing excess fat cells. It should not be considered a “weight loss” surgery. For good results, patients should have a BMI (body mass index) of 30 or lower in order to have liposuction surgery.
Liposuction is performed with a blunt tube called a cannula to suck out the fat. Dr. Morgan uses a system called Power Assisted Liposuction by MicroAire or PAL. PAL is a liposuction cannula which has a small motor. The motor enables the cannula to move forward and back (reciprocating motion) making it easier and less traumatic to remove the fat. This system does not tighten loose skin, so for patients that need liposuction with skin tightening, the best option is radiofrequency skin tightening done at the same time. Smart lipo/laser liposuction may also tighten skin slightly.
Liposuction is primarily done at the out-patient surgery center under general anesthesia. It may be done in the office if the patient has a very small amount of fat to be removed. A compression garment is worn for up to 6 weeks after surgery. Swelling, bruising and soreness last for 1-2 weeks after and most patients can return to work in 1-2 weeks.
The maximum safe amount of fat that should be removed at one time is 5 liters. Swelling makes you look fatter at first. By 6 weeks you see more or less your result but it takes 6 months at least to see the final result. If you lose 5-10 pounds after liposuction, the fat is gone permanently. If you stay the same weight, the fat gradually returns but to new body areas. If you gain weight after liposuction, fat also returns to the areas of liposuction.