Liposuction is a surgical procedure designed to minimize stubborn areas of fat and contour the results to look natural, however, it is not a weight loss procedure. These stubborn areas of fat can develop for a wide variety of reasons, from changes in body chemistry due to pregnancy all the way to simple genetics. For patients, it can feel exceptionally frustrating when diet and exercise seem to have no effect on these areas of unwanted fat.
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Michael Ogilvie, MD, FACS
As performed by Dr. Ogilvie in Chicago, liposuction requires only very small incisions, so it’s usually referred to as a minimally invasive procedure. Modern liposuction techniques allow Dr. Ogilvie to express a significant amount of control and finesse, meaning your results will blend in with the natural curves and forms of your body.
This means that it won’t be obvious you’ve undergone a liposuction procedure–the only thing that will be obvious, in fact, is how good you look.
How Do I Start the Liposuction Process?
The first step in the liposuction process is a consultation with Dr. Ogilvie. During this consultation, you’ll be able to discuss your desired final look with Dr. Ogilvie and plan a pathway forward. Dr. Ogilvie believes strongly in a transparent and educational experience for patients, so he may discuss other aspects of the liposuction procedure as well.
Many patients who undergo liposuction around the abdomen may also require a tummy tuck. Dr. Ogilvie will discuss that possibility with you during your consultation. To set up that consultation, call our Chicago area office to make an appointment!
Liposuction is generally used as a body contouring solution, not as a massive weight loss method (bariatric surgery, for example, would be a better option for weight loss purposes). However, liposuction can be used to eliminate unwanted areas of fat across broad and specific parts of the body.
The targets for liposuction vary considerably. There are, in fact, few areas of the body that are not good targets for a liposuction procedure. However, the most popular liposuction targets are usually the abdomen, torso, and legs (although the neck and chin area are also common).
In some cases, liposuction of the abdomen will create a small amount of excess skin (if sufficient fat is removed). As a result, many patients will also opt for a tummy tuck to be performed concurrently or subsequently with their liposuction procedure.
In general, a good candidate for liposuction will:
If you think you’re a good candidate for liposuction, contact Dr. Ogilvie to schedule a consultation today.
Liposuction procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, so patients are able to return home once the immediate effects of the anesthesia wear off. Generally speaking, liposuction usually follows these steps.
Anesthesia — In most cases, patients undergo general anesthesia for major liposuction procedures. However, for some patients, local anesthesia is the preferred option.
Incision — Dr. Ogilvie will make small incisions in the desired area. These incision will usually be only two or three centimeters in length. Then, a small tube called a cannula is inserted and used to suction out the unwanted fat. Other devices or techniques may be employed to help break up and contour the fat in the desired fashion.
Patients may experience swelling and bruising for two to three weeks after their liposuction procedure (depending on the extent and nature of the liposuction). Once swelling subsides, you will begin to notice that the treated area looks significantly more slender and fit, contoured to the natural curves and corners of your body.
If you have questions about liposuction and how it might be able to address stubborn areas of fat on your body, contact us to schedule a consultation with Dr. Ogilvie and get started on your transformation!
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