Aesthetic Plastic and Reconstructive

Diet and exercise is essential in shedding extra pounds, but sometimes, it just doesn't get rid of stubborn fat. Liposuction, a cosmetic procedure used to remove fat deposits, offers an effective way to improve your physique. Dr. Alexandrina Saulis, your Hinsdale, Oak Brook and Elmhurst, IL, plastic surgeon, shares some information on the liposuction procedure.

What is liposuction?

Liposuction uses a suction device to remove fat deposits from your body and reshape your contours. It can be performed on an in-patient or out-patient basis and is often used in conjunction with other cosmetic procedures, such as tummy tucks. Up to six to eight pounds of fat can be removed during one liposuction procedure. An additional procedure may be recommended if multiple areas need to be treated.

Liposuction is commonly used to remove from fat from the waist and abdomen but is also a good choice if you're concerned about the appearance of your knees, upper arms, buttocks, chest, back, chin, neck, cheeks, upper arms, chest or back. Although liposuction is very effective in removing fat, it has no effect on cellulite.

What happens during the procedure?

You'll receive either local or general anesthetic prior to the procedure. Your Hinsdale, Oak Brook and Elmhurst plastic surgeon will make a small incision and insert the cannula, a hollow tube that loosens the fat, allowing it to be removed with a surgical vacuum. Your surgeon may also use saline solution, ultrasound or laser energy to loosen or liquefy fat.

It will take a month or two for swelling to improve. Until it does, you won't be able to see the full effects of the procedure. Pain, bruising, swelling, numbness and stiffness are common after the liposuction treatment, but these symptoms usually get better in just a few days. Many people return to work in a week or less after liposuction.

Am I a good candidate for liposuction?

Liposuction is a good choice if you:

• Are within 30 percent of your goal weight
• Have elastic skin and good muscle tone
• Don't have diabetes, lupus, heart or lung disease or other diseases
• Don't smoke
• Have realistic expectations

Get the body you deserve with liposuction. Call Dr. Saulis, your Hinsdale, Oak Brook and Elmhurst, IL, plastic surgeon, at (630) 920-9404 to schedule a consultation and examination.