According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, in 2018, liposuction was the most popular surgical cosmetic procedure performed in the U.S. This transformative surgery requires the skilled hands of a highly qualified and experienced plastic surgeon to create the shapely, symmetrical, contoured results that can be achieved. Before moving forward with their procedure, it is wise for patients in Greater New Jersey to do a bit of homework about liposuction so that they can better understand what the procedure entails and what type of outcomes can be expected. The board-certified surgeons at The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ have compiled a list of six questions that patients should pose in advance of their liposuction surgery.
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What does a liposuction procedure entail?
Oftentimes, the simplest questions can reveal important answers. Long before your liposuction surgery (preferably during your consultation), be sure to inquire about the various aspects of the procedure. Ask the surgeon about the techniques he or she intends to use. Many favor tumescent liposuction, during which a saline-based solution is injected into the treatment area prior to fat removal. Others opt for laser-assisted liposuction, which loosens and melts the fat cells for easier extraction. Don’t be afraid to ask where the incision will be made and how the fat will be removed. The more you know about the specifics of the procedure, the more likely you are to feel comfortable and confident before heading into surgery.
Also, ask about any risks involved with liposuction procedures, especially as they relate to your medical history and current physical condition. Does the surgeon feel that you are a good candidate for the procedure? If you’re on the fence about liposuction, this may help you determine whether surgery is the right option for you at this time.
How long will the surgery take?
Careful planning is crucial when it comes to achieving excellent liposuction outcomes for women and men in the Greater New Jersey area. It helps to know the anticipated duration of your surgery in order to properly plan for your recovery. In most cases, the length of the procedure depends largely on the number of areas being treated and the amount of fat that will be removed. Your surgeon should be able to provide you with an estimated timeframe, however, keep in mind that this can vary based on other factors.
What is your experience performing liposuction?
During your consult, gather as much information as possible about your surgeon’s educational background, medical experience, and any special training he or she has received during their career. Learn if their practice concentrates on liposuction surgeries and how many they perform each year. For example, if the surgeon primarily performs eyelid lifts, he or she may not be as familiar with the latest liposuction techniques. Board-certified plastic surgeons such as those at The Peer Group welcome these types of inquiries and strive to be upfront and open with Greater New Jersey patients.
May I view before-and-after photos?
All reputable plastic surgeons will grant your request to view before-and-after photos of previous patients. In fact, most post a portfolio of their work on their practice’s website or have it available at their office. These photos will not only provide you a glimpse as to how your body may look after liposuction but also may be the best opportunity you have to evaluate the surgeon’s work before your procedure. Take time to look over the photos closely, paying close attention to those patients whose build and features are similar to yours, as well as those who underwent the same style of surgery as you will. Use this time to ask specific questions of your surgeon at The Peer Group about the results you see, especially if you wish to avoid any of them during your own procedure.
What will my recovery be like?
If you’re like most patients, you likely have many questions pertaining to your recovery period and what it will involve. As with the liposuction surgery itself, the duration of your recovery will be impacted by how many areas were treated and the amount of fat that was extracted. Your health going into surgery also will have an impact on how quickly you will be able to recover. Also, don’t forget to ask how much time you may need to take off from work, when you may be cleared to resume your regular daily activities and any other physical limitations that may be in place following the procedure.
It is common for patients in Greater New Jersey to experience some swelling and bruising in the treatment areas after surgery. You likely will be instructed to wear a compression garment as your body adjusts to its new shape. To speed the healing process and avoid infection, it is imperative that you follow all of your plastic surgeon’s instructions and attend any scheduled follow-up appointments so that he or she may evaluate your recovery and ensure no post-surgery complications have developed.
How will I look following surgery?
Posing this question may help you set and maintain realistic goals for the outcome of your liposuction procedure. Although liposuction works to remove fat, it is important to remember that it is not considered a weight-loss procedure. Rather, it is designed to create a more toned and sculpted appearance in targeted treatment areas. Once the bruising and swelling have subsided, patients should be able to enjoy a more contoured and enhanced silhouette.
Do you have additional questions? If you’re still wondering how you may benefit from liposuction, contact The Peer Group in Florham Park, NJ and schedule an appointment to learn more about this effective and transformative procedure. Our board-certified plastic surgeons work closely with Greater New Jersey area patients to ensure that they are educated and informed about all the options that are available when it comes to liposuction.
