Liposuction FAQs: (Part 2) The Procedure

How is tumescent liposuction performed?

Before the tumescent liposuction procedure begins, the treatment area is injected with two solutions: diluted lidocaine, which is a local anesthetic, and diluted epinephrine, which prevents blood loss by shrinking its capillaries.

How long does liposuction take?

Most liposuction sessions are between 45 minutes and 2 ½ hours. The length of the procedure will depend upon the size of the area to be treated, the number of areas to be treated and the amount of fat to be removed.

Does liposuction hurt?

Most liposuction patients report negligible discomfort during liposuction surgery. The process begins with an injection of a local anesthetic, which will take effect within 15 minutes to a half hour.

During that period, patients occasionally experience a slight pinching sensation, but once the anesthetic has set in, patients usually experience no pain whatsoever.

The lidocaine continues to work for 12 to 24 hours after your liposuction surgery is complete, which will leave you free from discomfort and pain. Almost none of Dr. Ali’s patients require medication for pain after their liposuction surgery. If necessary, however, Dr. Ali will make pain medication available to you, either by prescription or over-the-counter.

How many areas can be done during liposuction?

A single liposuction procedure can usually result in the safe treatment of three to four areas of fat deposits. The majority of Dr. Ali’s patients only require a single surgery to treat all desired areas.

If an additional procedure is required, it can be performed as early as 48 hours after the first procedure.

How much fat is typically removed during liposuction?

A successful liposuction surgery removes enough fat to give you a natural-looking, proportionate result. Everyone’s body is different, so specific results vary from case to case. After all, liposuction is not about removing as much fat as is physically possible, but instead to get rid of just the right amount in the desired area. It could be as little as a pound, or as many as ten.

In a recent study reported in the Dermatologic Surgery Journal, 112 patients who underwent tumescent liposuction had an average of two quarts of fat removed.

The safe limit for one surgery is five liters (about 11 pounds). But more typically it is not the amount of fat that limits the surgery but how many areas can be safely done during a single surgery.

What will I feel like after liposuction?

The lidocaine will remain applied for 12 to 24 hours after your liposuction surgery, keeping your perfectly comfortable and free of pain. After your liposuction surgery, you will remain alert and nausea-free, avoiding the grogginess that is associated with general anesthesia. You’ll be able to simply stroll right out of the surgery center, leaving you free to be driven home by a friend or loved one and to relax for the rest of the day.

The lion’s share of Dr. Ali’s patients don’t require any kind of post-surgery pain medication. However, if any mild pain does persist, Dr. Ali will gladly prescribe you any number of over-the-counter or prescription pain management medications.

A week after your surgery, we’ll schedule a follow-up appointment with you to inspect your incisions and make sure your healing process is healthy and comfortable.

Liposuction – Birmingham, MI

Dr. Ali has helped hundreds of women and men get rid of unwanted fat and love their bodies with tumescent liposuction. He will be happy to offer you a consultation at our Birmingham, MI Med Spa and Cosmetic Surgery Office to help you understand your options.

Renowned Birmingham, MI board-certified cosmetic surgeon Dr. Ali will consider all aspects of your body proportions, the amount of fat, your lifestyle, your age and your goals in order to ensure the best liposuction results for you.

And remember, liposuction financing options are also available!