Liposuction is one of the more customizable cosmetic surgery procedures that may be performed independently or in conjunction with other body contouring surgeries. Laser, RF and ultrasound techniques have been introduced as part of different types of liposuction. However, the steps in liposuction procedure largely remain unchanged, irrespective of the technique used.
Dr. Kristi Hustak is a board certified female plastic surgeon providing liposuction and various other procedures for the breast, body, and face. During the initial consultation, Dr. Hustak will explain all about liposuction procedure and discuss the steps involved in it. Her first concern is to educate the patient about liposuction and help them to make an informed decision. She provides liposuction to patients in Houston, Texas, and surrounding communities.
Anesthesia
Tumescent liposuction is the commonly used technique to perform liposuction plastic surgery. The advantage with this technique is that it avoids the need for general anesthesia, and can be performed only using lidocaine local anesthetic. Sometimes mild IV sedation may be used along with local anesthesia. If large amounts of fat tissue need to be removed from multiple areas, the surgeon may recommend general anesthesia.
Placement of Incisions
The procedure will begin with the surgeonplacing small incisions in targeted sites. The size of the incision may range from a quarter to a third of an inch. Incisions are placed in inconspicuous locations to minimize visible scarring. Female cosmetic surgeon Dr. Hustak receives patients from Houston, Texas, and nearby areas for liposuction surgery.
Fat Removal
Through the incision, the surgeon will insert a thin vacuum tube called cannula to physically manipulate the stubborn fat tissue layers. When the cannula reaches the deep fat tissue, the surgeon will gently move it back and forth to manually dislodge the unwanted fat cells. As the fat gets broken down, it can be suctioned easily with a pump or syringe attached to the other end of the cannula.
Thermal Energy Intervention
The surgeon may decide to use targeted heat energy generated through laser, RF or ultrasound to liquefy the stubborn fat cells and make it easier to remove them. With gentle and controlled heat energy, the procedure can be made less invasive and more targeted. The patient will receive IV fluids during and after liposuction to make up for the loss of blood and bodily fluids that may take place during fat removal.
Closing the Incisions
Following the completion of surgery, the incisions will be carefully closed with sutures. The surgeon may use dissolvable or removable sutures as appropriate. Drain tubes are usually placed below the skin in the incision areas for a few days to collect excess fluid. Drains and sutures may be removed in about seven to 10 days. In case of very small incisions, the surgeon may keep them open to minimize bruising and expedite healing.
Combining with Other Procedures
Depending on the patient’s needs, the liposuction surgery may be performed in conjunction with other procedures such as tummy tuck, mommy makeover or body lift. The procedure steps will vary in such cases as per the customized surgical plan.
For more information on procedures and treatments provided by board certified female plastic surgeon Dr. Kristi Hustak please call us to schedule a consultation at 713.322.7265 or click here. Offices in Houston, Texas.
