Liposuction Surgery

Dr. Galoob has been performing Liposuction surgery since 1983 when it was first introduced to the United States. His experience, insight and understanding of the procedure contribute to a high rate of satisfaction of his patients.

People use various techniques to improve their physical appearance. Although diet, exercise and flattering clothing styles help many look better, others remain dissatisfied because of stubborn, unsightly bulges. In women, fat deposits occur most frequently from the waist down, on hips, buttocks and outer thighs (saddlebags) and are resistant to weight loss and exercise. Fat deposits on men tend to accumulate above the waist, on the abdomen and sides of the waist (love handles).

Liposuction can help both men and women improve the contours of their bodies through a simple and safe technique. Liposuction surgery involves the removal of fat cells from the body and may be used alone or in conjunction with other procedures, such as facelift, breast reduction or tummy tuck. It is designed for those who have specific areas of localized fat deposits and who have tried unsuccessfully to eliminate them through diet, exercise and weight loss. Once removed, the fat cells tend not to return unless significant weight gain occurs.

Liposuction will not correct general obesity. It is best used for any area where excess fat deposits have accumulated. These include the chin, neck, jowls, cheeks, arms, breasts, back, inner and outer thigh, buttocks, knees, hips and abdomen. Men with enlarged breasts (Gynecomastia) can also benefit from this technique. In most cases, skin will shrink to fit the new contour. Patients with large amounts of loose, lax skin may need some skin excision. While not possible to predict with total accuracy, Dr. Galoob will advise you what to expect and whether surgical skin removal might be indicated.

Men and women in good physical condition with good skin elasticity are the best candidates for this surgery. When the procedure was first introduced, only younger people were considered to be good candidates; however, recent improvements in the technique have made it possible to treat patients of all ages. Each person seeking this treatment, regardless of age, will be personally assessed by Dr. Galoob to determine if he or she is a suitable candidate for liposuction surgery.

Before Surgery

Prior to surgery a complete medical history is taken and a thorough exam is performed in order to evaluate the general health of the patient. Dr. Galoob will discuss the type of anesthesia to be used, the procedure, what results might realistically be expected, and possible risks and complications.

Preoperative instructions often include the elimination of certain drugs (aspirin, garlic, Arthritis medications, etc.) for a week before surgery in order to minimize the possibility of excess bleeding. Patients are advised to refrain from smoking before surgery for at least one week and for two weeks after the procedure. Patients who smoke have a higher risk of poor healing and other problems. Antibiotics are given in the operating room at the time of surgery to prevent infection. Photographs are taken before and after surgery in order to evaluate the final results. The areas to be contoured are marked with a special marking pen.

The procedure

Dr. Galoob most commonly performs Liposuction in his AAAHC (www.aaahc.org ) accredited office surgical facility. Sometimes the patient will be directed to a local outpatient surgical facility. Premedication and sedation is administered to help the patient relax. Once the patient is relaxed and sleepy, tumescent anesthesia solution (a special dilute local anesthetic) is injected into the area to be treated. The area is then treated with ultrasound to soften the fat and spread the anesthetic solution (www.lipoperfection ). The use of tumescent solution has the advantage of reducing pain and bruising in the area and makes the procedure more effective.

A tiny cannula (a smooth metal tube with holes in the end) is then inserted through a small slit in the skin. The fat is loosened from surrounding tissue by gently moving the tube back and forth and is then removed or vacuumed from the body with the suction device attached to the end of the tube. The fat is removed evenly and smoothly producing a sponge or Swiss cheese effect. This reduces the bulkiness of the area and allows the fatty tissue and surrounding skin to shrink after the procedure. The amount of fat to be removed is determined by feeling the skin and pinching the tissue. The procedure can last from thirty minutes to several hours depending upon the amount of fat removed.

Following Surgery

After incisions are closed, a compression dressing or bandage is applied to the area to prevent bleeding, reduce swelling, and support the affected area. Some drainage can occur through the dressings for the first 12 to 18 hours.

Patients spend the night in a local hotel or at home and are seen the next day by Dr. Galoob for a dressing change and postoperative visit. The dressing remains in place for three to four days depending upon the extent of the surgery and the individual's healing process. An elastic compression garment is worn for several weeks.

Since Liposuction surgery does not involve large incisions and extensive cutting, pain is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication.

Most patients are completely ambulatory immediately following surgery. Early activity, including walking, is encouraged. Patients are usually able to return to normal activities within a week.

Some swelling and discoloration occurs but usually disappears within a month. Scars, which fade significantly with time, are, for the most part, inconspicuous because they are made within the natural creases of the body whenever possible. Ultrasound treatments are recommended for the postoperative period to reduce swelling and bruising and improve smoothness of the skin. Several ultrasound treatments are given in Dr. Galoob's office during postoperative visits and are included in the fee. Some patients arrange to have the treatments in their local area if more convenient.

Complications connected with this surgery are rare; however, an uneven skin surface, bleeding, infection, numbness and discoloration can occur. These types of problems are rare in Dr. Galoob's practice.

Liposuction surgery, while not a cure for generalized obesity, is an excellent procedure that can benefit those who want to remove unsightly fat from localized areas. Patients who choose this type of surgery must have realistic expectations about the outcome and understand that final results may not be apparent for up to one year.

If you are interested in learning more about liposuction surgery, please contact our office and we will be happy to answer your questions.