Season for Lipo?
February 9th, 2011
There are about 285,000 liposuction procedures performed each year. Springtime is the prime season that I see an uptick in calls from patients asking about liposuction. As the temperatures finally begin to moderate in Minnesota, consultations in my office gradually switch from a focus on facial rejuvenation to body contouring procedures. Spring is also a popular time to escape from cooler climates. Perhaps it’s only a coincidence, but my patients often mention plans for vacations like cruises and island getaways. It makes sense that liposuction might offer a boost for looking good in beachwear.
Liposuction and liposculpture also continue to be very popular year-round as new techniques are always hyped in the media. However, the lipid or fat reducing method remains basically the same, but the new trendy gimmicks make great headlines. I find that refined traditional liposuction is quite effective in body sculpting surgery.
Next time: Summer Accessories
Lipo as weight loss? Part 3
June 16th, 2010
Earlier in my career, I had the unique opportunity to be interviewed on television by Roseanne Barr and Tom Arnold about liposuction, which I discussed earlier this week. This series continues.
Lipo as weight loss? Part 3
Why isn’t Lipo a quick fix? I have found that cosmetic surgery results are far better when the fat layer located beneath the skin is as thin as possible before surgery. In the case of skin tightening procedures, the skin can be stretched more easily to give a better result. I also believe that wound healing is more efficient, there are fewer complications and patients see the best results when they are at a healthy weight.
Patients presenting for cosmetic surgery consultation who are carrying extra pounds frequently change their minds regarding which procedures they are pursuing after reaching their ideal weight. This is most evident with breast surgery. A woman considering breast reduction before weight loss will frequently choose breast enlargement after significant weight loss. Patients considering liposuction after weight loss usually only need a slight reduction of stubborn remaining localized fat pockets, such as the outer thighs. Skin appearance often responds better when weight loss is gradual and exercise is part of the program.
I know the idea of having surgery first, followed by weight loss and conditioning has been popularized on reality TV. It has never made sense to me. Why take this shortcut if there are increased risks, potential medical problems and compromised cosmetic results? Please consider being within 20 pounds of your ideal weight before considering cosmetic surgery. It is the best advice that I can offer my patients.
Remember: A moment on the lips, perhaps a lifetime on the hips!
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