Liposuction
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that can remove stubborn excess fat deposits and enhance both shape and contour in the abdomen, hips, buttocks, thighs, arms, underarms, breasts, and other body areas. Year after year, liposuction is consistently the most popular aesthetic surgery performed in the U.S. In fact, nearly 347,800 liposuction procedures were completed in 2023* alone. This treatment can be an excellent way to sculpt and shape the body for a refined physique.
One of our board-certified plastic surgeons, Dr. Ashley Kerekes or Dr. John Lettieri, will be happy to discuss your concerns during an initial consultation and tailor a liposuction treatment plan that is right for your needs and goals.
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Am I a Candidate for Liposuction?
Liposuction can be an effective solution for many individuals who are experiencing pockets of excess fat in specific body areas that have not responded to traditional exercise routines or dietary regimens. Additionally, ideal candidates for liposuction typically include those who:
- Are at or near his or her ideal, healthy weight
- Have good skin elasticity in the area targeted for treatment
- Are committed to maintaining a healthy weight, diet, and fitness routine, along with taking steps to reduce stress
- Understand that liposuction is not designed to be a weight loss treatment
These components are necessary to achieving long-lasting change. One of our plastic surgeons can meet with you to explore your options and determine whether you are an ideal candidate for liposuction.
This treatment can be an effective procedure on its own, or it can be combined with tummy tuck surgery or other options for more comprehensive aesthetic renewal. Liposuction is also one of the most popular additions to our customized mommy makeover procedures.
What Does the Liposuction Procedure Involve?
Liposuction is a surgical procedure that requires small incisions in the skin of the treatment area. Thin tubes called cannulas will be delicately guided through the incisions to suction out the excess fat cells. Anesthesia and diligent post-operative care will be necessary for this procedure. In most cases, liposuction can be performed on an outpatient basis.
At our practice, we often utilize the tumescent liposuction technique as it has proven to be one of the most reliable methods of surgical fat removal available. Tumescent liposuction involves the following:
- Injection of a solution composed of saline, lidocaine (local anesthetic) and epinephrine (adrenaline which constricts blood vessels to minimize bleeding)
- Small incisions through which our surgeon will work to suction away fat and sculpt the body area being treated
- Closing of incisions
- Dressing the treatment area in a compression garment, which is to be worn for a few weeks
Patient Results
What Can I Expect During Liposuction Recovery?
Swelling, bruising, soreness, and achiness are normal side effects following liposuction surgery. These symptoms should subside gradually a little each day and should continue to dissipate as the treatment areas heal. Residual numbness may take a few weeks to resolve completely. Most of our liposuction patients are able to resume normal daily routines within two to four weeks; however, the compression garment will need to be worn for up to six weeks. Our plastic surgery team will provide you with detailed recovery guidelines and recommendations on when you can resume more vigorous activities after liposuction. It is vital to follow post-operative instructions and recommendations carefully in order to achieve the safest, most efficient recovery possible.
Choosing a Plastic Surgeon
When considering any surgery of any kind, it is most important to choose a surgeon who is not only qualified, but also one who is also highly skilled and experienced in that particular procedure. During your research, it is helpful to evaluate the following criteria:
- Board Certification: Look for a surgeon certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS). This is an indication that the surgeon has undergone rigorous training and meets the highest standards in the field of plastic surgery.
- Experience and Credentials: Research the prospective surgeon’s professional history, experience, and credentials. Surgeons such as Ashley Kerekes, MD and Dr. John Lettieri have extensive educational and training backgrounds along with high levels of experience with a variety of plastic surgery procedures. Additionally, they belong to several prestigious medical organizations and societies.
- Before-and-After Photos: Reviewing a surgeon’s before-and-after photo gallery can give you an idea of their skills and abilities while helping you determine whether the outcomes achieved by their previous patients align with your desired results.
- Patient Reviews and Testimonials: Reading reviews and patient testimonials can offer insight into the surgeon’s expertise, bedside manner, and overall patient satisfaction.
- Consultation and Communication: Scheduling a consultation with the plastic surgeon you are considering is the final step in the research process. Your consultation offers an opportunity to ask questions, express concerns, and assess how comfortable you feel with the surgeon. A good surgeon will listen to your goals, explain options clearly, and have a strong record of success when it comes to safety and overall care.
Both Dr. Kerekes and Dr. Lettieri are extensively trained, experienced plastic surgeons who prioritize safety, advanced techniques, genuinely customized treatment plans, and compassionate care for all individuals who walk through our doors. They are experts in the fields of plastic surgery and cosmetic enhancement and are dedicated to providing exceptional outcomes with results that look both natural and beautiful.
Why Is ABPS Board-Certification Important?
Choosing a plastic surgeon who is board-certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) is essential for maximizing the chances of achieving safe treatment and high-quality results. ABPS certification is the gold standard in the field, signifying that a surgeon has undergone extensive training, rigorous examinations, and adheres to the highest ethical and professional standards.
To earn ABPS certification, a surgeon must complete several years of surgical training, including a plastic surgery residency, and pass comprehensive written and oral exams. This can ensure they have the necessary skills, experience, and knowledge to perform procedures safely and effectively. ABPS-certified plastic surgeons specialize in both aesthetic and reconstructive procedures and are dedicated to prioritizing patient safety, natural-looking results, and surgical excellence.
Dr. Kerekes and Dr. Lettieri are both certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery. Ultimately, choosing an ABPS-certified plastic surgeon can give you peace of mind and instill confidence that you are in the hands of a highly qualified professional committed to delivering the best possible outcomes.
Medical Reference:
*American Society of Plastic Surgeons® 2023 Statistics Report
“I had liposuction and I am very pleased! I would recommend Dr. Lettieri to everyone!”