Liposuction is a surgical procedure that uses a narrow tube, called a cannula, to remove excess fat from treatment areas. The cannula is inserted through small, strategically placed incisions to release fat cells so they can be siphoned from the body. Liposuction works equally as well on large areas such as the abdomen as it does on smaller, more intricate locations such as under the chin. This safe and effective procedure permanently removes fat and may be performed in conjunction with a tummy tuck, called a lipoabdominoplasty, or as part of a mommy makeover.

Fat removal procedures such as liposuction are effective because once fat is eliminated from the body, it doesn’t regrow or migrate. Throughout our lives, the number of fat cells we have is relatively constant. As we gain or lose weight, they simply grow bigger or smaller; the amount remains unchanged. Liposuction eliminates some of this fat from the equation for a slimmer, contoured figure.

At Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC, Dr. Huettner performs liposuction under general anesthesia, IV sedation , or local anesthesia only, depending on the extent of surgery and the patients preference for optimal results and patient comfort. This allows for a patient tailored individual approach for more comprehensive body sculpting and a better outcome. Your exact procedure will be individualized based on your particular needs, but the process typically lasts one to three hours depending on the areas being treated.

During your procedure, Dr. Franziska Huettner at Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC will make several small incisions to access the targeted fat and insert the cannula. The cannula will be used to loosen and suction out the unwanted fat with a careful, artistic touch to ensure a flattering outcome that is complementary to your natural curves and body shape. Once a sufficient amount of fat is safely removed to sculpt your desired results, the incisions will be closed and you may be fitted with a compression garment to minimize bruising and swelling. Due to Dr. Huettner’s level of skill and expertise, incision scars will be small, well hidden and almost imperceptible.

Compared to more invasive procedures, liposuction recovery is relatively brief and manageable. You may experience some bruising, swelling and soreness, but these side effects will fade not long after your treatment and can be easily managed with non-narcotic pain medication and plenty of rest. Compression garments or bandages may be used to help decrease these symptoms while your body heals. Because every patient and procedure is unique, Dr. Huettner at Manhattan Plastic Surgery NYC will discuss your recovery in detail and provide aftercare instructions to facilitate a smooth, comfortable process. Patients will also have a direct line of communication to Dr. Huettner should any questions or concerns arise.

The majority of patients can return to work and other activities a few days after the procedure, but this varies depending on the individual and the number of areas treated. Strenuous activity such as exercise should be avoided for some time following your procedure, but due to the uniqueness of each patient, Dr. Huettner will check in to ensure that your recovery is as pleasant as possible and to advise you when it’s safe to resume your normal routine.

Although you’ll immediately notice a reduction of fat in treated areas after your procedure, the full outcome will gradually appear as swelling decreases. During this time, you may see subtle changes to your physique as results become more noticeable. These results are permanent, but that doesn’t mean you are immune to weight gain. Liposuction reduces the number of available fat cells, but those that remain will continue to behave normally and swell or shrink if your weight fluctuates. However, treated areas will continue to have improved tone due to less fat cells overall; liposuction results are usually only eclipsed in cases of excessive weight gain. Patients should continue to practice healthy habits such as a balanced diet and regular exercise to maintain an optimal outcome.