Liposuction — the second-most requested cosmetic surgery — is a tried-and-true option for eliminating fat and sculpting beautiful contours. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Alfred Sofer, MD excels at body contouring procedures such as liposuction.
If you’re eating well and exercising regularly but still can’t shed unwanted pockets of body fat, then liposuction might be an option for you. Below, Dr. Sofer highlights the top five signs you might be ready to consider liposuction.
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1. You’re within 30% of your ideal weight
Liposuction physically removes unwanted body fat by first breaking up the fat deposits, then removing them via suction. Although removing excess fat can have a dramatic effect on your silhouette, it’s not a weight loss surgery. You should be within 30% of your ideal weight and be able to maintain your ideal weight before committing to liposuction.
2. You want to refine your shape
Liposuction is wonderful for eliminating fatty bulges and sculpting natural body contours, according to the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery. This can help restore balance and proper proportions to your silhouette, boost your self-confidence, and ensure your clothes fit better.
3. You have good skin tone
No matter which area of your body you’re targeting, you’ll need good skin tone. That’s because your skin needs to be elastic enough to conform to your new shape, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. If your skin isn’t elastic enough, you might have less body fat, but you’ll be left with droopy, saggy skin.
4. You have realistic goals
Having realistic expectations is one of the most important parts of considering any cosmetic surgery. It’s important to know that while liposuction can do wonders for your appearance, it can’t do everything. For example, liposuction can’t address stretch marks or cellulite. If you’re having problems with stretch marks, you may need to look at other treatments or procedures.
In addition to understanding what liposuction can and can’t do, it’s also important to understand all that’s required of you during your recovery period. Cosmetic surgical procedures, including liposuction, require downtime to allow your body time to heal. The good news is that with diligent aftercare and healthy habits (such as following a balanced diet and exercising regularly), liposuction results can be permanent.
5. You have stubborn pockets of fat
Liposuction treats a variety of areas on the body, including:
- Your abdomen
- Your buttocks
- Your legs, including the hips, thighs, calves, and ankles
- Both your chest and back
- Your chin and neck
- Your upper arms
What to expect at your consultation
During your one-hour consultation, Dr. Sofer evaluates your problem areas, explains how power-assisted liposuction (PAL) works, and allows you one-on-one time to ask questions and address any concerns you might have. Dr. Sofer will also evaluate your surgical goals, and ask questions about your health history and any underlying conditions that may impact your ability to consider cosmetic surgery.
If liposuction isn’t right for you, Dr. Sofer may suggest other treatments that would better help you reach your goals. Tummy tucks, mommy makeovers, and skin tightening are just a few examples of procedures available at our office.
If you’re ready to take the next step toward the body of your dreams, call our Fairfield, Connecticut or Miami, Florida office to schedule your consultation. You may also request an appointment online.